Printing Industries Bloghttp://blog.printing.org/blog/all/20120105
en-USManagers vs. Leaders: What’s the Difference?http://blog.printing.org/Caliper-Buying-Power-Blog-Managers-Vs-Leaders
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<p><em>This post was contributed by Ricardo Roman, VP of Strategic Alliances and Caliper Sports, Caliper. For more information about the National Buying Power Program with Caliper, visit <a href="http://www.printing.org/caliper">www.printing.org/caliper</a>.</em></p>
<p>Managers and leaders share many similar qualities, but the performance of a manager carries far fewer risks than the performance of a leader. In addition, there seems to be a difference in the underlying motivational characteristics of these two groups.</p>
</div>
<div class="WordSection2">
<p>In a recent Caliper study, more than 300 presidents and chief executive officers told us what they considered to be the most important—and the most difficult aspects—of being a leader. Among the choices we asked them to rank were:</p>
<ul>
<li>Creating the right vision</li>
<li>Getting people to embrace that vision</li>
<li>Maintaining momentum (motivating, influencing, and persuading others)</li>
<li>Managing change (strategic planning, problem solving)</li>
<li>Surrounding oneself with the right people</li>
<li>Developing staff (coaching, managing performance, transforming teams)</li>
<li>Delegating authority</li>
</ul>
<p>Surrounding oneself with the right people was selected 41% of the time, second only to creating the right vision, as one of the most critical parts of leadership. Surrounding oneself with the right people was also selected as one of the three most difficult aspects of being an effective leader, just behind maintaining momentum and developing staff.</p>
<p>These chief executives said there are three main factors that keep most managers from becoming leaders: not understanding others well enough, not solving problems quickly enough, and not taking necessary risks.</p>
<p>We also asked the perennial question, is leadership predominantly something you are born with or that you develop through experience?</p>
<p>These same chief executives told us they felt they were born with 40 percent of their leadership ability and developed the remaining 60 percent through experience.&nbsp;</p>
<p>What are the personality qualities that account for this 40 percent of innate leadership ability?</p>
</div>
<p>When we assessed the personality strengths of these chief executives, we found they were adept at influencing and directing others, skillful at building relationships, and masterful at solving problems and making decisions. In essence, these leaders are extremely bright, assertive, driven to persuade, empathic, and resilient. Having a need to get things accomplished, they are willing to take risks. They are also moderately sociable, demonstrating a healthy level of skepticism, and are motivated to come up with new ideas.</p>
<p>Identifying and developing future leaders is one of the most important challenges facing chief executives today. Yet most organizations have a tendency to suffocate potential leaders.</p>
<p>Certainly a hallmark of an effective leader is to create a vision for the company's future. Essential to that vision is: recognizing the potential in future leaders, mentoring, coaching and developing them, giving them responsibility early, and realizing that a very different type of leader may be needed for tomorrow than exists today.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.calipercorp.com"><img src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/bpower/caliper.png" alt="" width="500" height="164" /></a></p>http://blog.printing.org/Caliper-Buying-Power-Blog-Managers-Vs-Leaders#commentsGeneralHuman RelationsTue, 31 Mar 2015 14:10:04 +0000mgrguras@printing.org12152 at http://blog.printing.orgAward Winning Marketing Secrets: Body of Work http://blog.printing.org/2015-PPA-Spotlight-On-Blog-Body-of-Work
<p><em>There are some amazing companies that have won Bennys at the </em><a href="http://www.printing.org/ppa"><em>Premier Print Awards</em></a><em>! This post is part of a blog series profiling 2014 Premier Print Award Benny winners from small print shops to large corporations as well as universities.</em> <em>Check out how a company in your demographic used their 2014 Benny win to leverage more business.</em></p>
<p>Something catches your eye. The striking color, beauty, and elegance—images flawlessly flowing together throughout each calendar, poster, book, and other printed pieces. The work produced by the illustrious Australian company Body of Work is a culmination of sharp talent in print, design, and photography. But the the team at Body of Work has gained exciting market success thanks to Bob Armstrong.</p>
<p>No stranger to awards, Armstrong ascended the stage at the 2014 Premier Print Awards Gala last September to accept 17 total Bennys as well as the Best of Show first-place title on behalf of his comapny. Though they do their own promotions, Armstrong also credits their success to the unparalleled endorsement of their peers through the Premier Print Awards. Here he explains how they get some valuable exposure for their Body of Work and how you can “work it” for your brand as well.</p>
<p><img style="float: right;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/ppa/Body%20of%20Work%20PPA%20Blog%20Image.jpg" alt="" width="309" height="241" /></p>
<p><strong>Q: First can you share what these awards mean to your company?</strong></p>
<p>A: Ours is a bespoke product to a small elite group. The success of all bespoke products, from Rolls Royce down, is totally reliant on brand reputation pedigree and above all brand endorsement. There is no [greater] credibility than endorsement from your peers, and in our industry there is no higher international endorsement than the Premier Print Awards<br /> <br /> Our focus is totally craft driven, and our driving ambition is to be the best in the world at what we do. To achieve this, everything we do is without compromise. [This means that our company] bans the word “cost” because that is the first step of compromise. If we create the perfect product, the financial rewards will follow—and they have thanks to the committed team of craftsmen that make up Body of Work.</p>
<p><strong>Q: How have you been able to leverage your Premier Print Award wins to further build your brand?</strong></p>
<p>A: We have been extremely successful in leveraging these awards because, in addition to being a designer and photographer, I am an advertising man of long standing. We totally understand who we are trying to impress, what reaction we are seeking, and how to get it.<br /> <br /> If it becomes an exercise in self-glorification to your peers, it may satisfy your ego but won’t work commercially, and we are too pragmatic to go down that path. We are skilled in creation of all media and use it to the fullest. It is easy for us because promotions are a big part of what we do.</p>
<p><strong>Q: What advice would you offer other industry companies</strong> <br /> <br /> If you do not have the promotional skills yourself, get someone who has them. The reason most printers don’t get leverage from their awards is simply because they try to do it themselves. We are well aware of our limitations, and if we need outside skills we have no hesitation in seeking them.</p>
<p>We also use these awards as a very useful measuring stick, and here we are very ruthless on ourselves. Anything that does not win a Benny is discarded. In marketing our brand, the market knows we will only offer the very best for sale, and the Printing Industries of America judges are the arbiters!</p>
<p>Ready to leverage your brand on a Premier Print Award like Body of Work? First you need to enter! Just submit your pieces via our <a href="http://awards.printing.org/">online entry system</a>. The early-bird discount ends April 17, and the final deadline to enter is May 15, 2015. Learn more at <a href="http://www.printing.org/ppa">www.printing.org/ppa</a>.&nbsp;</p>http://blog.printing.org/2015-PPA-Spotlight-On-Blog-Body-of-Work#commentsGeneralMember ResourcesWed, 25 Mar 2015 13:43:12 +0000mgrguras@printing.org12147 at http://blog.printing.orgAre you Going to the 2015 BIA Conference? http://blog.printing.org/blog-Are-you-Going-to-the-2015-BIA-Conference%3F%20
<p><span style="color: #ff0000;"><em>This post was contributed by </em>Chris Webbert<em>, president, </em>Advantage Book Binding, Inc.</span></p>
<p><strong>&nbsp;</strong>Are you attending the 2015 BIA Conference? If you haven't yet registered for this excellent event, now is the time to do so!</p>
<p>&nbsp;Postpress companies are at a prime position right now. There a so many new technologies and ways we can apply them to our business—if we just know how to utilize them. From special effects printing to digital marketing, this year’s BIA Conference offers tons of learning opportunities so you can expand your business. It’s also THE networking forum of the year for postpress professionals and key vendors, so come prepared to meet new potential clients and partners too!</p>
<p>Learn more below about this great opportunity to network with other postpress professionals, hear from industry experts, and connect with suppliers. Here is all you need to know—the Who, What, When, Where, and Why—about</p>
<h2>The 2015 BIA Conference</h2>
<p><strong>Who </strong></p>
<p>Printing Industries of America</p>
<p><strong>What </strong></p>
<p>The 2015 Binding Industries Association Conference</p>
<p><strong>Where </strong></p>
<p>The Minneapolis Marriott City Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota.</p>
<p><strong>When </strong></p>
<p>May 18-20, 2015</p>
<p><strong>Why</strong></p>
<p>There are many great reasons to attend the 2015 BIA Conference:</p>
<ul>
<li>You'll meet other professionals from trade binderies, graphic finishers, custom loose-leaf manufacturers, and information packagers. This is an ideal opportunity to exchange ideas that will help your company grow.</li>
<li>You'll meet the top suppliers to the postpress industry and have the opportunity to see the latest and greatest materials, services, and products. Plus have all of your questions answered by suppliers on site.</li>
<li>You'll hear from industry experts about new technologies that are transforming the industry and current market trends that you need to be aware of. This inside information will be invaluable to the future and success of your enterprise.</li>
<li>You'll have the opportunity to meet CEOs and top-level marketing and sales executives from the <a href="http://www.printing.org/pls">Print Leadership Summit</a>, co-locating with this year's BIA conference.</li>
<li>For an additional fee, you can attend the <a href="http://biaconference.printing.org/about/plant-tours/">BIA Plant Tour</a>, when you'll visit the Muscle Bound Bindery and Daily Printing Inc. Together these two businesses have more than 100 years of experience between them in the Minneapolis postpress industry. The tour concludes with a stop at the historic 612Brew, a landmark brewery in the historic Broadway building.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>How </strong></p>
<p>We hope you can join us for this exciting conference where you can definitely add a few more tools to your business-building toolbox. To learn more, visit the 2015 BIA Conference's <a href="http://biaconference.printing.org/">official website</a>. Early-bird registration at a discount rate ends on Friday, March 27, so don't delay!</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog-Are-you-Going-to-the-2015-BIA-Conference%3F%20#commentsMon, 23 Mar 2015 14:16:07 +0000mgrguras@printing.org12145 at http://blog.printing.orgIntroducing Techcreative [Infographic]http://blog.printing.org/introducing-the-Techcreative-Print-Leadership-Summit-Speaker-Blog
<p><em>This post was contributed by Brian Regan, president, Semper International. Brian will present at the&nbsp;</em><a href="http://www.printing.org/pls"><em>2015 Print Leadership Summit</em></a><em>, May 18–19, in Minneapolis, MN. Read his full article, “Introducing Techcreative: The Next Key Role in Hiring,” from the October 2014 issue of&nbsp;</em><a href="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/downloadable_products/1014GetinLine.pdf">Printing Industries of America: The Magazine</a><span>.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p>Have most of your recent hires been in the IT, marketing, or technology teams? As a job seeker, do you notice more companies requiring cutting-edge technical skills like CAD or Graphic Design, SEO or Social Media, or Variable Data or Web-to-Print? Today our industry is undergoing a fundamental shift in our internal rosters from production to technology centered.</p>
<p>Brian Regan and his team at Semper International have coined this new role the <strong><em>“Techcreative.”</em></strong> Defined as <em>intermediaries between the two worlds of&nbsp;</em><em>creativity and technology—those with the technical expertise to make your ideas a reality, </em>Techcreatives are an essential part of a successful team. They are out-of-the-box thinkers who can help you streamline production strategies and improve workplace efficiency.</p>
<p>As an industry we need to be prepared to face this transformation. The question is not if business must adjust to new technology and new market dynamics, but what that shift will look like.</p>
<div>
<p>This infographic gives you a snapshot of the technology and creativity skills that blend to form the Techcreative.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/conferences/techcreative_infographic.jpg" alt="" width="438" height="620" />
<p>&nbsp;</p>
</div>http://blog.printing.org/introducing-the-Techcreative-Print-Leadership-Summit-Speaker-Blog#commentsGeneralConferencesFri, 06 Mar 2015 16:15:41 +0000mgrguras@printing.org12141 at http://blog.printing.orgA Recipe for Continuous Improvementhttp://blog.printing.org/Blog-A-Recipe-for-Continuous-Improvement
<p class="make-italic"><span style="color: #ff0000;">The following post is contributed by Jim Workman,&nbsp;Assistant Vice President, Center for Technology and Research,&nbsp;Printing Industries of America.</span></p>
<p>Lean is more than a business philosophy, it’s a way of life. It’s also simpler to implement than the consultants would have you believe. And respecting your employees by recognizing and developing their talents must be a central focus. Those are three principle messages from Paul Akers’ <em>2 Second Lean</em> book. Akers credits Lean with propelling his woodworking supply business from a garage startup in 1997 to a multimillion dollar enterprise with distribution in 40 countries. In April 2015 Akers will be the opening speaker at the Continuous Improvement Conference in Minneapolis.</p>
<p>Akers is a master carpenter, pilot, musician, and Eagle Scout, and was already oozing with confidence when he started FastCap, named after his initial invention, a self-adhesive cover for screw holes in cabinets.&nbsp; His dose of reality came when he ran into inventory problems and was dissuaded of the notion that he knew how to how to manufacture. A consultant introduced him to the Toyota Production System (a.k.a. Lean Manufacturing) and Akers grew into a devout believer, eventually applying a customized version to his manufacturing business. &nbsp;</p>
<p>Akers learned to spot waste everywhere, traveled to Japan to tour companies modeling Lean behavior, devoured management books, and brought an air of efficiency and simplicity to FastCap, saving the company tens of thousands of dollars. He then hit the wall, exhausted, having reached the point that many give up on Lean—realizing that the minute he stepped away from the business, improvement stopped.</p>
<p><em>2 Second Lean</em> recounts Akers’ struggle and discovery of how to build a culture at FastCap so that continual improvement was in its DNA. He established company goals, instituted staff-wide morning meetings and rotated leader duties, read aloud from his favorite business books, taught the eight wastes and other concepts, and set aside an hour a day for the 3Ss (sweep, sort, and standardize) so that everyone could identify a daily 2 second improvement. He adjusted as needed, hired people who were humble and curious, and documented company ingenuity with endless videos.&nbsp; &nbsp;</p>
<p>The essence of <em>2 Second Lean</em> is about making small incremental improvements that accumulate into a significant advantage. Akers lays out a roadmap that has lessons for every leader.</p>
<p><a href="http://ci.printing.org/program/keynote-speakers/">Paul Akers</a><em> is a featured keynote at the 2015 Continuous Improvement Conference. For more information and to register for the 2015 Continuous Improvement Conference, April 12–15, in Minneapolis, MN, visit </em><a href="http://www.ci.printing.org">www.ci.printing.org</a><em>.&nbsp;</em></p>http://blog.printing.org/Blog-A-Recipe-for-Continuous-Improvement#commentsGeneralConferencesTue, 24 Feb 2015 18:54:10 +0000mgrguras@printing.org12132 at http://blog.printing.orgThe Art of Postpress: How to Get the Competitive Edge Your Company Deserveshttp://blog.printing.org/Blog-The-Art-of-Postpress-How-to-Get-the-Competitive-Edge-Your-Company-Deserves
<p>You know who you are. You live for clean lines, square corners, exactness, and all the finer details of postpress work. Some people may call you a perfectionist. But why do you settle for only the highest quality product? Because you know that’s what sets you apart from competitors.</p>
<p>Distinguishing your company can be difficult in our industry because, well, face it: marketing isn’t cheap! That’s why for years postpress companies have entered the <a href="http://www.printing.org/poeawards">BIA Product of Excellence Awards</a> for their chance to be recognized as the “best of the best” in graphic finishing and loose-leaf products. Award winners illustrate that postpress work can be a true art form, displaying flawless craftsmanship, and catching the attention of the award judges—as well as the industry.</p>
<p>Over the years Product of Excellence Award winners have displayed more high-impact pieces mixing new and traditional techniques giving products their own modern twist. <em>(Check out the creative pieces of </em><a href="http://www.printing.org/page/11826"><em>past winners</em></a><em>.)</em> For the 2015 competition, the stakes are even higher.</p>
<p>So to any postpress professional looking to promote your company, why should <em>you</em> enter the 2015 Product of Excellence Awards?</p>
<ol>
<li><strong>Earn Recognition for Your Work</strong></li>
</ol>
<p>If there is one event that spotlights the best in the industry, it’s the <a href="http://www.printing.org/gala"><em>Premier Print Awards Gala Featuring the InterTech™ Technology Awards</em></a>. Beginning this year, Product of Excellence Award recipients are invited to attend the Gala, September 13, 2015, in conjunction with GRAPH EXPO 15. This is print’s star-studded evening, and now you can accept your award before an audience full of your peers and potential clients.</p>
<ol>
<li><strong>Take Advantage of Free Publicity</strong></li>
</ol>
<p>Award winners are included in national publications seen by the media and thousands of industry members. First, your company will be recognized in press releases announcing all winners to the media. Then the 14,000 readers of&nbsp;<em>Post-Press Magazine </em>will read about your company as well as top national printing executives in <em>Printing Industries of America: The Magazine. </em>Additionally your company’s name and link are posted on <a href="http://www.printing.org/poeawards">www.printing.org/poeawards</a>.</p>
<ol>
<li><strong>Expand Your Customer Base </strong></li>
</ol>
<p>With widespread recognition for creating outstanding postpress work, customers are going to take notice! Customers recognize the Product of Excellence Award as a seal of approval that says, “You can rely on this company to deliver excellent work!” Companies that have earned this award can also proudly display their plaque so customers can see they are the Best of the Best.</p>
<p><em>Think your company has what it takes to win a BIA Product of Excellence Award? Learn how to enter at </em><a href="http://www.printing.org/poeawards"><em>www.printing.org/poeawards</em></a><em>.&nbsp;</em></p>http://blog.printing.org/Blog-The-Art-of-Postpress-How-to-Get-the-Competitive-Edge-Your-Company-Deserves#commentsGeneralMember ResourcesTue, 24 Feb 2015 16:08:04 +0000mgrguras@printing.org12131 at http://blog.printing.org5 Tips on How Your Small Businesses can Create Quality Contenthttp://blog.printing.org/blog/5-TIPS-ON-HOW-YOUR-SMALL-BUSINESSES-CAN-CREATE-QUALITY-CONTENT
<p><em>The following blog post was contributed by <a href="mailto:kiorio@printing.org">Kristina Iorio</a>, Copywriting Manager, Printing Industries of America. This is the first in an upcoming series of posts focused on small business marketing tips.&nbsp;</em></p>
<p>You have heard “Content is King,” but what does that really mean? With an endless amount of information available online, your customers are more informed than ever. According to the <a href="http://contentmarketinginstitute.com/what-is-content-marketing/">Content Marketing Institute</a>, “Content marketing is a strategic marketing approach focused on creating and distributing valuable, relevant, and consistent content to attract and retain a clearly defined audience—and, ultimately, to drive profitable customer action.” It’s delivering valuable content to your customers, including white papers, blogs, video, podcasts, digital publishing, etc.</p>
<p>But for small businesses however, providing a steady stream of quality content is time consuming, and your company may lack sufficient resources or personnel to dedicate to such a project.</p>
<p>Here are five tips your small business can use to develop meaningful, effective content to promote your business and engage customers—all in the midst of day-to-day operations.</p>
<p><strong>&nbsp;</strong></p>
<ol>
<li><strong>Create a Strategy<br> </strong>Strategy is essential to effective content marketing. What are your goals? What content does your company already have? Who is your main audience? How can you fill their needs for information? Your content strategy will help you plan how you’re going to attract more business. A great source for creating a content strategy, I found, is <a href="http://contentmarketinginstitute.com/developing-a-strategy/">this article</a> from Content Marketing Institute.</li>
</ol><ol>
<li><strong>Developing Valuable Content<br> </strong>Once you have a strategy in place and you’ve taken inventory of the content you already have, it’s time to create and collect new content. The easiest, most efficient way to do this is to repurpose information. Do you receive customer inquiries? Create a blog or video where you answer some of the most popular questions. If you’ve written a white paper, send it to your top clients as a free resource along with information on your products and services. Be resourceful and keep an eye open for content that will benefit your customers.</li>
<li><strong>Blogging<br> </strong>A blog is a low-cost way to engage customers and establish your expertise. You can find free templates online from Wordpress.com and other sites. Your blog can allow you to reach a wider audience, boost brand awareness, sell something, or connect you to your customers and community. Your blog content should be appealing to your audience and include keywords and information (see SEO below).Try to blog on a regular basis, whether that’s every week, bi-weekly, or every month, to keep your audience coming back for fresh content. This can take a big investment of your time, so have your content strategy in place before you tackle blogging.</li>
<li><strong>Get Social <br> </strong>With limited resources you want to reach as many customers as possible. Like a blog, social media is an inexpensive way to get your brand in front of a wider audience, but your time is also a major consideration. If you’re a newbie to social media marketing, there are many platforms to engage in, including Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Google+, Pinterest, etc. Determine which platforms your audience prefers, and focus your efforts on those channels. If you’re already using social media to promote your business, be sure to listen to and share with your audience. Include helpful, informal posts (images are encouraged!) and respond to feedback—both positive and negative!</li>
<li><strong>Simplify SEO<br> </strong>How often do you go past the first one or two pages when searching for information through a search engine like Google? At its basic level, Search Engine Optimization (SEO) involves ensuring that your website can be found in a search engine results page (SERP) when using words or phrases relevant to your website content. Using tactics to “optimize” your webpages, you make it easier for customers to find you.</li>
</ol>
<p>For a simple, effective way to optimize your site, there are two basic requirements: Authority and Value. Building authority means having strong inbound links from reliable sources. Valuable content includes topics your audience wants to read about. Think about what keywords or phrases they may use to do their research and be sure to address those on your blog and throughout your site. (Learn more about SEO in this article from <a href="http://www.entrepreneur.com/article/241758"><em>Entrepreneur</em></a>.)</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/5-TIPS-ON-HOW-YOUR-SMALL-BUSINESSES-CAN-CREATE-QUALITY-CONTENT#commentsGeneralMember ResourcesWed, 18 Feb 2015 14:30:14 +0000mgrguras@printing.org12130 at http://blog.printing.orgModels of Efficiency: What You Will Experience at the 2015 Automation Solutions Network Meeting (Pt. 2 Kodak Inkjet Printing Solutions) http://blog.printing.org/What-You-Will-Experience-at-the-2015-Automation-Solutions-Network-Meeting
<p>If you read our <a href="http://blog.printing.org/Models-of-Efficiency-2015-ASN-Blog">last post</a> that gave a sneak peek at Think Patented, host of the of the <a href="http://www.printing.org/asn2015">2015 Automation Solutions Network Meeting</a>, February 25–26, in Miamisburg, Ohio, you’ll probably want to know that there’s an <em>additional second tour</em> as part of this ASN Meeting.</p>
<p><strong>Kodak Inkjet Printing Solutions</strong>, a sizeable component of Kodak’s worldwide operations, is headquartered in Dayton and will host this Special Evening Event. It’s an opportunity to network and discover how and why inkjet printing is transforming the industry.</p>
<p>After a dinner reception, your tour guides will lead you through their impressive facility where you’ll take part in print demonstrations while discussing the technologies with your peers. You’ll not only witness Kodak’s inkjet presses and imprinting systems in action, but learn about the science and unique capabilities of inkjet systems. The Dayton facility is where Kodak designs and manufactures its equipment, ink, and print heads. &nbsp;</p>
<p>High-speed inkjet technologies are having a significant impact on the printing industry since they offer cost-effective solution for variable, short and medium run printing. They give printers new capabilities and market opportunities and can shift work from higher-cost production methods. The growing array of equipment (now 15 suppliers with more than 60 models) targets various markets—transactional, trans-promotional, books, direct mail, newspapers, catalogs, brochures, newsletters, and packaging. You can find detailed information on the different solutions at <a href="http://www.printing.org/inkjetproducts">www.printing.org/inkjetproducts</a>, including the Kodak PROSPER presses featured on the tour.</p>
<p>It is an exciting time of transition in the communications industry, and production inkjet is going to be an important facilitator for many of the changes occurring. Staying aware of inkjet developments is crucial for printing companies planning for the future. The February 25 tour to Kodak Inkjet Printing Solutions is a great way to do that. &nbsp;</p>
<p>You can experience the Kodak Inkjet Printing Solutions tour as part of the <a href="http://www.printing.org/asn2015">2015 Automation Solutions Network Meeting</a>, February 25–2, in Miamisburg, Ohio, hosted by Think Patented.</p>http://blog.printing.org/What-You-Will-Experience-at-the-2015-Automation-Solutions-Network-Meeting#commentsGeneralResearch and TechnologyWed, 28 Jan 2015 21:00:25 +0000mflynn@printing.org12118 at http://blog.printing.orgImproving Your Workplace with Visual Managementhttp://blog.printing.org/blog-Improving-Your-Workplace-with-Visual-Management
<p>Time. No matter what, it seems like there’s never enough, right? One way to save time is to make your workplace more visual, infusing it with information that answers the critical and recurrent questions of people working there. With a glance people can get the information they need without having to waste time searching for it.</p>
<p>Visual Management systems <em>“enable anyone to immediately assess the current status of an operation or process at a glance, regardless of their knowledge of the process. Visual displays relate information and data to employees in an area through the use of charts, graphs, and process documentation.” (</em><a href="http://ci.printing.org/resources/glossary/"><em>Continuous Improvement Glossary</em></a><em>) <a href="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/downloadable_products/Mag0314CI.pdf#page=12&amp;zoom=130,-63,725"><img style="float: right;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/blog/Visual%20Management.png" alt="" height="260" width="201" /></a><br /></em></p>
<p>In the article “<a href="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/downloadable_products/Mag0314CI.pdf#page=12&amp;zoom=130,-63,725">Visual Management</a>,” authors Phuong Nguyen, and Jim Mullen, Nosco, Inc., give the 15,000-ft view of how to immediately spot areas to improve and apply this system to an operation.</p>
<p><strong>Examples from the pressroom</strong></p>
<p>You notice that the preproduction team was overproducing for some presses and underproducing for others. Now staging orders for the presses has become disorganized, causing frustration across departments. What do you do?</p>
<ul>
<li>Call a cross-functional team meeting to decide how to improve the staging order of the presses.</li>
<li>Have them create makeready carts with a preflight checklist to visually communicate when a cart is ready.</li>
<li>Tape off and label areas around each press for completed staged carts to reside until your press operator needs them.</li>
</ul>
<p>Your results:</p>
<ul>
<li>Reduced downtime—everyone knows when staged orders are ready.</li>
<li>A visual management method for the process of staging orders.</li>
<li>A sustained process—front-line leads and managers use a <strong><em>Kamishibai audit board</em></strong> (uses</li>
</ul>
<p>a red/green card system along with standardized questions to ask various team members how the process is working. Red means the audit was not done. If the card is green, this means the audit was completed. Any corrective actions are written on the green side.)</p>
<p><strong>How to get started</strong></p>
<p>Implement the <strong><em>5S system (Sort, Set-in-order, Shine, Standardize, and Sustain)</em></strong>. Use visual tools to create a Lean environment, including signage, labeling, location markers, color coding, standard work visuals, and metric boards. With these visuals you will have a clean plant and can better manage your processes.</p>
<p>We also recommend studying other successful Lean organizations with a proven track record of recognizing and leading change. Some <a href="http://www.printing.org/page/11629">managers</a>, like <a href="http://ci.printing.org/about/managing-for-improvement-award/">Managing for Improvement Award</a> recipients William Denzen, general manager of rollfed and Red Rock Technologies business units for Smyth Companies, and Timothy Keran, CEO and owner of Western Graphics, have found winning recipes for creating real and lasting improvement for their companies!</p>
<p><strong>Think of it like this</strong></p>
<p>The <strong><em>bottom line for visual management</em></strong> is staying tuned in to what’s happening in your operation. As a parallel example, say you’re at home watching the Super Bowl. You leave the room for a few minutes, and when you return to your TV, all of the elements that clue you into how the game is progressing have disappeared—the score, time left on the clock, down and distance, time outs remaining, etc. You’ve lost the ability to instantly evaluate the game. If you were the coach, you would not be able to quickly react and impact the game’s outcome.</p>
<p>Nguyen and Mullen say,<em> “That is sometimes what present-day management is without visual management. We have to know the status of a process at a glance in order to evaluate and take action if necessary.”</em></p>
<p>To learn more, read the full article from <em>Printing Industries of America: The Magazine</em> <a href="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/downloadable_products/Mag0314CI.pdf#page=12&amp;zoom=130,-63,725">here</a>.</p>
<p>Do you know a manager who has created real and lasting improvement for their company? Why not nominate them for a <a href="http://ci.printing.org/about/managing-for-improvement-award/">Managing for Improvement Award</a>? Nominations are due February 13, 2015.</p>
<p>The winning manager will be recognized at the 2015 Continuous Improvement Conference,&nbsp;April 12–15, in Minneapolis, Minnesota.</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog-Improving-Your-Workplace-with-Visual-Management#commentsGeneralConferencesThu, 22 Jan 2015 19:31:16 +0000mflynn@printing.org12112 at http://blog.printing.orgModels of Efficiency: What You Will Experience at the 2015 Automation Solutions Network Meeting http://blog.printing.org/Models-of-Efficiency-2015-ASN-Blog
<p>Efficiency lies in the details. Delivering jobs with reduced turn times and fewer resources requires being intensely focused on the details.</p>
<p>As more companies realize the benefits of automation, they’re looking closer at each piece of equipment and each process to find out how to maximize efficiency. And one of the standout industry players in automation today is Think Patented.</p>
<p>This is the site for the <a href="http://www.printing.org/asn2015">2015 Automation Solutions Network Meeting</a>, February 25–26, in Miamisburg, Ohio. What makes this facility so impressive? Every square inch of Think Patented is designed for automation. &nbsp;Before you go, we wanted to give you a preview of Think Patented’s facility, what makes them successful, and what you’ll see on the tour!</p>
<p><strong>How They Got Here</strong></p>
<p><strong><img style="float: right;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/asn/ASN%20Blog%201.png" alt="" height="192" width="267" /></strong></p>
<p>A “marketing execution company,” Think Patented thinks beyond ink on paper. Founded more than 35 years ago, they recently moved their operation into a new facility created to meet their customers’ every need. With keen attention to detail, it is designed top to bottom from an automation and lean manufacturing perspective. They’ve incorporated optimized delivery and material flow with a just-in-time mindset.</p>
<p>Designed also with an eye to the future, Think Patented has allowed room for expansion in this already massive facility. Any aspects that should be automated are automated. Not one detail was spared within the entire operation, and cleanliness and efficiency is evident in every corner of the facility.</p>
<p><strong>How They Work</strong></p>
<p><strong><img style="float: right;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/asn/ASN%20Blog%202.png" alt="" height="190" width="268" /></strong>While some operations may look at a job as an order-in/order-out process, Think Patented looks at it from the perspective of both a printer and a marketer—the <em>whole </em>process. From Web development services to fulfillment, their goal is to create custom solutions for their clients. Therefore, as the customer moves, the jobs—and the profits—stay with them!</p>
<p><strong>What You Will Experience</strong></p>
<p>Go inside the Think Patented facility and get a full sense of this meticulously designed plant built to maximize throughput and minimize transportation and motion waste. They’ve invested millions of dollars in software and equipment to enhance every automation aspect.</p>
<p><strong>Equipment—</strong>The facility houses an impressive collection of some of the most efficient technologies in <a href="http://thinkpatented.com/does/print/">digital and offset printing equipment</a>. Attendees get to see these giants in action, including <strong><em>Sheetfed Offset </em></strong>presses, <strong><em>digital</em></strong> presses, <strong><em>wide-format</em></strong> printing and finishing. Think Patented employs software to measure metrics and monitor performance on all of their jobs.</p>
<p><strong>Value-added Services—</strong>Integrated, full-service solutions add greater value for Think Patented’s customers, like marketing portals, campaign tracking and reporting, and augmented reality.</p>
<p>One particular service they’ve perfected is <strong><em>automated marketing.</em></strong> By working with their customers to improve their marketing efforts, they allow them to easily contact and analyze responses to mail, email, websites, social media, and other channels saving them time and money.</p>
<p>They’ve also added a greater focus on <strong><em>mailing</em></strong> with experts on staff to help optimize the process. Communicating with the customer in the early stages of development, Think Patented can save them costs before work is even begun.</p>
<p>Learn more about the 2015 ASN Meeting hosted by Think Patented <a href="http://www.printing.org/asn2015">HERE</a>.</p>
<p><strong>And the tour continues…</strong></p>
<p>Want to see innovative inkjet equipment in action? Stay tuned for part 2, Special Evening Event at Kodak Inkjet Printing Solutions, part of the <a href="http://www.printing.org/asn2015">2015 Automation Solutions Network Meeting</a>, February 25–26, in Miamisburg, Ohio.</p>http://blog.printing.org/Models-of-Efficiency-2015-ASN-Blog#commentsGeneralConferencesMon, 19 Jan 2015 18:59:17 +0000mflynn@printing.org12106 at http://blog.printing.orgYOUR COMPANY CULTURE: WHY IT IS IMPORTANT AND HOW YOU CAN IMPROVE IThttp://blog.printing.org/Continuous-Improvement-Conference-Blog-Your-Company-Culture
<p>If you asked your employees right now what it’s like to work at your company each day, how would they respond? Do they feel like they work in an environment that supports their goals and ideas? Are they provided the appropriate resources to excel at their jobs? How would they rate their managers?</p>
<p>You may wonder why company culture is so important. <strong><em>Only three out of ten U.S. workers are involved in and enthusiastic about their workplace</em></strong>, according to Gallup’s <em>2013 State of the American Workplace </em>report. That means that <strong><em>70%</em></strong> <strong><em>of workers are not fully engaged</em></strong> in their workplace. This lack of commitment leads to decreased productivity and lower overall profits.</p>
<p>If this is a reality check for your company, take a moment now to get an honest look at your organizational culture. If you haven’t tried the new <a href="https://www.cvent.com/Surveys/Welcome.aspx?s=f6af357a-9460-4479-a3f1-0935b9ff3647"><strong>Culture Audit Tool</strong></a>, it’s a free member resource that allows you to examine the fine details of your culture and compare your answers to other companies. The survey contains <em>33 precise questions</em> based on how employees assess your company. The areas include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Mission, Purpose, and Success</li>
<li>Communication, Respect, and Trust</li>
<li>Team and Empowerment</li>
<li>Training, Development, and Support</li>
<li>Corporate Behavior and Ethics</li>
<li>Compensation and Benefits</li>
</ul>
<p>This survey is 100% confidential and helps you get to the root of your company culture and provide a vision of which areas you need to focus your <a href="http://www.printing.org/ciconference">continuous improvement</a> efforts.</p>
<p>So just how important is a healthy company culture? Research says it not only impacts your employees but also your bottom line. We’ve laid out four reasons to invest in your organization’s culture along with key ways to measure it.</p>
<p><strong>Why invest in culture?</strong></p>
<ol>
<li><strong>It’s connected to financial performance—</strong>An 11-year study by John Kotter and James Heskett looked at the effects of culture in 207 companies from 22 industries. The results, published in their book <em>Corporate Culture and Performance </em>(Free Press, 2011), showed that companies that managed their corporate culture significantly outperformed similar companies that did not. The right corporate culture can be one of a business’s most critical assets.</li>
<li><strong>There’s a high ROI—</strong>Cultivating a great culture is a financially low-cost endeavor that can yield high economic returns. Best of all, it is an advantage that competitors cannot duplicate. (“<a href="http://www.fastcompany.com/1840650/how-intangible-corporate-culture-creates-tangible-profits">How Intangible Corporate Culture Creates Tangible Profits</a>”)</li>
<li><strong>Ignorance can lead to serious consequences</strong>—While culture may not <em>seem</em> like a top priority, a weak one will reveal itself when you try to implement a new strategy. You may find that your employees’ current thinking and behaviors are incompatible with new corporate initiatives. The conflict can make for an unsustainable strategy (“<a href="http://ci.printing.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/Workman-How-Healthy-is-Your-Culture.pdf">How Healthy is Your Culture</a>?”).</li>
<li><strong>Managers have influence</strong>—At the organizational level, managers can help improve key outcomes by giving careful attention to how their actions and practices (such as values, beliefs, and norms) affect employee working conditions and their perceptions of these conditions. (“<a href="http://pps.sagepub.com/content/5/4/378.abstract">Causal Impact of Employee Work Perceptions on the Bottom Line of Organizations</a>”)</li>
</ol>
<p><strong>Many of today’s best companies also have a great culture</strong>—Look at companies like Suttle-Straus, Vox Printing, and Hammer Packaging. These and other 2014 Best Workplace in the Americas Award winners understand that a healthy culture affects their bottom line. While not every organization can offer perks like an on-site fitness center, you can find ways to show employees they are valued.</p>
<p><strong>How to measure it</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Assess your culture using the <a href="https://www.cvent.com/Surveys/Welcome.aspx?s=f6af357a-9460-4479-a3f1-0935b9ff3647"><strong>Culture Audit Tool</strong></a>and benchmark your answers against those from other firms.Then if your leadership is committed to sharing the results and using them to take action, go a step further. Ask your employees to take the same assessment and compare the results. You’ll probably find gaps between management’s and employees’ perceptions.</li>
<li>Another way to measure your culture is from the outside in—how your customers feel about your organization. The <a href="http://www.printing.org/customerfeedback"><strong>Customer Feedback Management Program</strong></a>is a customized survey that reveals your customers’ opinions of your product quality and service. If your culture places a priority on customers and continuous improvement, then customers should like dealing with your company and report that your employees are responsive to their needs.</li>
</ul>
<p>&nbsp;The free <strong>Culture Audit Tool</strong> is provided in support of the 2015 Continuous Improvement Conference, April 12–15, in Minneapolis, MN. For details visit <a href="http://www.ci.printing.org">ci.printing.org</a>.&nbsp;</p>http://blog.printing.org/Continuous-Improvement-Conference-Blog-Your-Company-Culture#commentsGeneralConferencesTue, 16 Dec 2014 14:14:15 +0000mflynn@printing.org12096 at http://blog.printing.orgHow to Face Your Toughest EHS Challenges Head On in 2015: An Interview with Gary Joneshttp://blog.printing.org/Environmental_Health_and_Safety_Blog_An_Interview_with_Gary_Jones
<p>In what seems to be a forever-changing regulatory landscape, employers can only imagine what new EPA and OSHA requirements they will encounter in 2015. How can you avoid serious fines, negative publicity, and serious injuries from EHS violations? For managers, business owners, or anyone involved in EHS in the printing industry, those are just a few of the many concerns that can keep you up at night. But if there’s one thing we do know about your job going into 2015, it’s that the stakes are going to get higher and the rules more complicated. <img style="float: right; margin: 5px;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/blog/gary_jones.png" alt="" height="257" width="182" /></p>
<p>Gary Jones, Assistant Vice President of <a href="http://www.printing.org/ehs">EHS Affairs</a> at Printing Industries of America, has experienced his share of sleepless nights too, usually because he is traveling from state to state helping printers solve serious EHS challenges. We caught up with him in between a print consulting project and a key EPA meeting to talk about the crucial EHS issues facing industry companies today and important regulation changes they need to prepare for.</p>
<p><strong>You’ve led several significant EHS </strong><a href="http://www.printing.org/ehsconsulting"><strong>consulting</strong></a><strong> and compliance auditing projects for printing operations this year. Can you tell us about some of the latest ones you’ve been working on?</strong></p>
<p><strong>Gary Jones:</strong> Our team has been busy on a number of projects this year, both on the environmental and health and safety front. For many of the environmental projects, we’re helping operations with obtaining air permits as well as their compliance record keeping and reporting. Most printing companies don’t realize that if you purchase new equipment or if the regulations change, they may need to apply for an air permit—even small companies. While the thresholds vary from state to state, many of them have dropped to very low levels. In fact, in certain areas every piece of equipment that emits pollution must now have a permit.</p>
<p>On the health and safety side, companies are concerned with the fallout of the printing industry being declared a high-hazard industry for amputations. OSHA has been targeting printing companies and focusing on how they are protecting employees from machine related hazards which include machine guarding and lockout/tagout procedures. In fact 78% of OSHA inspections in the printing industry for fiscal year 2014 were planned or targeted inspections. This shows that OSHA has clearly become very aggressive regarding inspections in the printing industry.</p>
<p><strong>Can you describe the top issues you see for members in the EHS field going into 2015?</strong></p>
<p><strong>GJ:</strong> OSHA’s new reporting requirements, effective January 1, 2015, will be a game changer. Employers will be required to report any work-related incidents that result in an amputation, loss of an eye, or in-patient hospitalization of one or more employees within 24 hours to OSHA. Any fatality must still be reported within eight hours.</p>
<p><strong>How does this revised requirement differ from the current requirements? </strong></p>
<p><strong>GJ:</strong> Before this revision, employers were only required &nbsp;to report a work-related injury hospitalization of three or more employees and did not even need to report an amputation or loss of an eye. Importantly after this revised requirement goes into effect, OSHA will act on the reports and they can and will most likely trigger an inspection. In addition, these reports will now be made publicly available by being posted on the <a href="https://www.osha.gov/">OSHA website</a> for customers, employees, and competitors to read.</p>
<p><strong>In what ways can you help members meet the new requirements and remain competitive and profitable? </strong></p>
<p><strong>GJ:</strong> We have many resources available to help printing companies learn about and meet EPA and OSHA’s requirements. For example, to help companies know when to report an injury under OSHA’s revised reporting requirements, we developed the “<a href="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/downloadable_products/2015_OSHA_Reporting.2.pdf">When to Report a Workplace Injury</a>” decision tree. It is included in an article that will be published in the December 2014 issue of our member magazine <a href="http://www.printing.org/page/4508"><em>Printing Industries of America: The Magazine</em></a> (Member login required). Any member company that has EHS questions or would like to schedule a compliance audit may <a href="mailto:gjones@printing.org">contact me</a> directly at <a href="mailto:gjones@printing.org">gjones@printing.org</a> or 412-259-1794.</p>
<p><strong>What have been some of the toughest cases you’ve faced and what were the outcomes?</strong></p>
<p><strong>GJ:</strong> We have recently run into two lockout/tagout consulting projects that have been challenging because of the number of pieces of equipment each operation was using. Since we also perform employee training, we devised a unique plan of attack that included training many equipment operators on three separate shifts. We were able to complete the training—and stay under budget.</p>
<p><strong>What can printers do <em>now</em> to improve their EHS standards and avoid penalties? </strong></p>
<p><strong>GJ:</strong> The biggest piece of advice I give to companies is to be proactive. It is much harder to put a program in place after a company has already been penalized for a violation or after a serious accident occurs. But when you have your core programs in place, you are far better prepared to avoid penalties, many of which can be large!</p>
<p><strong>More EHS resources to prepare your company for 2015:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.printing.org/ehsconsulting">EHS Affairs Consulting Services</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.printing.org/compliance">EHS Regulatory Compliance</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.printing.org/page/5412">About OSHA</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.printing.org/page/4313">Green and Sustainability</a></li>
<li>Or contact Gary Jones at <a href="mailto:gjones@printing.org">gjones@printing.org</a></li>
</ul>http://blog.printing.org/Environmental_Health_and_Safety_Blog_An_Interview_with_Gary_Jones#commentsGeneralGreen and SustainabilityTue, 02 Dec 2014 16:52:19 +0000mflynn@printing.org12091 at http://blog.printing.org3 Steps to Becoming a Lean Thinkerhttp://blog.printing.org/3_Steps_to_Becoming_a_Lean_Thinker
<p><em><img src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/conferences/Lean_Thinker.png" alt="" height="275" width="499" /></em></p>
<p><em>Looking for another great resource for Lean and continuous improvement solutions? We found a helpful tool at </em><a href="http://www.fastcap.com/"><em>FastCap.com</em></a><em>. Check out the variety of blogs, videos, and more from Paul Akers, founder and president of FastCap and keynoter at the </em><a href="http://www.ci.printing.org"><em>2015 Continuous Improvement Conference</em></a><em>!</em></p>
<p>Time and money—two things most of us don’t have in excess. And if you’re thinking of using a continuous improvement strategy to reduce costs and boost customer satisfaction, the task can feel like an overwhelming use of your resources!</p>
<p>But as the experts know, your journey to operational excellence is not an all-at-once undertaking. Rather it is the accumulation of small improvements by many employees that add up to a strategic advantage for your company. When you can inspire workers to make small-yet-frequent improvements rather than just focus on a few big ones, you are ready to join the ranks of Lean thinkers.</p>
<p>What is a Lean thinker? Someone who has been conditioned to look at processes, spot the waste (and teach others to do the same), and apply tools to make the processes more efficient. Lean thinkers can’t avoid thinking that way—that same mindset kicks in when examining processes at home, at restaurants, and when visiting other companies. Take it from <a href="http://ci.printing.org/speakers/paul-akers/">Paul Akers</a>, founder and president of FastCap, an international woodworking supply company with distribution in 40 countries. As the “American Innovator,” he publishes a series of videos, blogs, and other resources on his <a href="http://www.fastcap.com/">website</a>, including this one, “<a href="http://paulakers.net/2014/videos/lean-fastcap/becoming-a-lean-thinker">Becoming a Lean Thinker</a>”.</p>
<p>In this blog, Paul breaks down the continuous improvement nature of Lean into three steps, borrowing from the world-class concepts practiced by leading firms like Toyota, Harley-Davidson, and Porsche.</p>
<p><strong>Three steps to becoming a Lean thinker:</strong></p>
<p>1. Learn the <strong><em>eight wastes</em></strong> and how to recognize them within your own facility.</p>
<p>2. Take <strong><em>small, consistent steps</em></strong> each day to removing the waste <em>for good.</em></p>
<p>3. <strong><em>Network and share your company’s Lean journey.</em></strong> Document your improvements. FastCap documents many of them with short videos shared with employees. Continuous improvement is an ongoing process, so listen to the best practices of other companies and keep increasing your efficiency and profitability!</p>
<p align="center"><a href="http://paulakers.net/2014/videos/lean-fastcap/becoming-a-lean-thinker%20"><img src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/ppa/CI_Blog_becoming-a-lean-thinker.jpg" alt="" height="210" width="250" /></a><br /> <br /> Watch Paul Akers’ Video on <a href="http://paulakers.net/2014/videos/lean-fastcap/becoming-a-lean-thinker">Becoming a Lean Thinker</a>.</p>
<p>When you’re ready to learn new improvement strategies, start at the <a href="http://www.ci.printing.org">Continuous Improvement Conference</a>. Here you can learn and network with some of the most innovative thinkers in the field. Paul Akers will also be there to dive deeper into this topic with his <a href="http://ci.printing.org/program/keynote-speakers/">keynote</a> presentation, <em>Seeing Waste Like You've Never Seen It Before.</em></p>
<p><em>Becoming a Lean thinker means that you can recognize the opportunities for improvement within your facility and be on your way to greater efficiency and profitability. </em></p>
<p><em>For more information and to register for the 2015 Continuous Improvement Conference, April 12–15, in Minneapolis, MN, visit </em><a href="http://www.ci.printing.org">www.ci.printing.org</a><em>. </em></p>
<p><a href="http://www.ci.printing.org"><em><img src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/conferences/2015%20CI%20Conference%20Banner.jpg" alt="" height="179" width="512" /></em></a></p>http://blog.printing.org/3_Steps_to_Becoming_a_Lean_Thinker#commentsGeneralConferencesMon, 24 Nov 2014 14:39:13 +0000mflynn@printing.org12090 at http://blog.printing.orgNew Ways to Cut a Profit in the Binderyhttp://blog.printing.org/New_Ways_to_Cut_a_Profit_in_the_Bindery_BIA_Blog
<p><span class="make-italic">The following post was contributed by Rick Ciordia, Territory Sales Manager at Standard Finishing Systems and member of the BIA Board of Directors.</span><img style="float: right;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/bia/Rick%20Ciordia.jpg" alt="" height="108" width="90" /></p>
<p>Traditional diecutting in the bindery has been around for many years. There are many types of diecutting. In this case we are discussing diecutting for the commercial print and light packaging industry. Rotary diecutting is one of those processes that has always given a printed piece a look and vision of class, elegance, function, and, most importantly, higher profit margins for the manufacturer. Diecutting had traditionally been an area of high investment, complex die creation, highly trained operators, and long runs.</p>
<p>Today diecutting is getting a makeover. With the advent of digital print devices, shorter runs, fewer skilled operators, tighter margins, and turn-around, diecutting is now entering a new phase of simplicity, with the same qualities of higher-end machines in a small package. New small-format rotary magnetic diecutting units from several manufacturers allow the customer to use magnetic dies from a plethora of sources around the world. Many of the die manufacturers have been making these types of rotary magnetic dies for the flexographic, forms, and packaging industries for years. The dies have been manufactured for runs of hundreds of thousands to millions, depending on the requirements of the run length and substrate. Typically the rotary diecutting was used for webs and flat bed for cut sheet. Cut sheet diecutters are for medium to long runs but are very high in price ($450,000 and up). Older flatbed letterpress devices are typically modified for diecutting but hold mediocre registration, are complex to set up, and many times are unsafe.</p>
<p><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/bia/cutting_blade.png" alt="" height="143" width="462" /></p>
<p>The new family of rotary magnetic diecutters, such as the Standard Horizon RD-4055, allow an unskilled operator to produce a very short run or a longer run with ease and quality. Kiss cutting, embossing, scoring, perfing, and stripping are all available on some of these systems at a much lower cost than traditional diecutters, along with exact registration and even the ability to step and repeat in order to keep die costs low, which is important for a very short run. The ability to store jobs in memory and recall them at the touch of a button is also very useful when there are many jobs that rerun on a regular basis. This allows your customers to truly request diecut work on an on-demand basis, saving them storage space and allowing more scheduling flexibility.</p>
<p>Diecutting also increases your opportunities to bring higher-end work to your facility, as many jobs that are diecut are usually done on higher-end substrates with high color.</p>
<p>Discover more resources that come with a BIA Membership by visiting <a href="http://printing.org/bia">www.printing.org/BIA</a> or contacting Elise Sturgess, Manager, The NEW BIA, at <a href="mailto:esturgess@printing.org">esturgess@printing.org</a>.</p>http://blog.printing.org/New_Ways_to_Cut_a_Profit_in_the_Bindery_BIA_Blog#commentsGeneralMember ResourcesTue, 18 Nov 2014 16:08:22 +0000mflynn@printing.org12078 at http://blog.printing.orgWhat You Need To Know About The NEW BIAhttp://blog.printing.org/What_You_Need_To_Know_About_The_NEW_BIA
<p>As members of the print and graphic arts industry, we’ve become experts at evolution. Re-inventors. We take high-quality original products and morph them to meet today’s ever-changing standards.</p>
<p>The <a href="http://www.printing.org/bia">NEW BIA</a> (formerly Binding Industries of America) is another example of reinvention. It reflects the changing needs of its postpress members, from cashing in on the hot packaging market to providing solutions for end clients. <img style="float: right;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/The%20NEw%20BIA%20Logo.png" alt="" height="197" width="299" /></p>
<p>“The needs of the industry have changed,” said Chris Eckhart, President of Eckhart &amp; Co. and member of the NEW BIA Board of Directors. “The fresh look of the NEW BIA reflects the refocus of the organization’s efforts to provide members with unparalleled networking opportunities, the latest information on technologies changing the industry, and educational resources to support and grow your business. The NEW BIA is providing postpress companies with the tools they need to evolve with the industry,”</p>
<p>You may have seen the updated NEW BIA logo, but what benefits does the NEW BIA offer members? And how do these benefits directly impact postpress companies? We talked with Mike Packard about what members can expect.</p>
<p><strong><em>Can you give us more details on the transition to the NEW BIA and your new value proposition? </em></strong></p>
<p><strong>Mike:</strong> Our special interest group has been going strong since 1955 because of our dedication to supporting our members. A lot of change has taken place in just the past few years with regard to technology, and we recognize that these changes have significant impacts on our finishing professionals and industry suppliers. We realized that we needed to grow <em>with</em> our members in order to truly meet their needs and provide solutions. The NEW BIA focuses on the finest networking, education, and our members’ ever-expanding opportunities, broadening our range of benefits to meet our members’ expanding needs.</p>
<p><strong><em>What additional benefits does the NEW BIA offer members going into 2015?</em></strong></p>
<p><strong>Mike: </strong>We realize our members value learning and networking to help them grow their business. For one of the latest benefits, we are working with the <a href="http://www.printing.org/ilearning">Integrated Learning Center</a> to develop market-specific online courses for finishing industry professionals. Members can also access Economic and Technology reports as well as get a free copy of the <a href="http://www.printing.org/ratios"><em>Ratios</em></a> report when they participate in the survey*. &nbsp;<a href="http://printing.org/peergroups">Peer Groups</a> are major benefits for professionals today, and BIA members now have access to several groups, including Virtual Peer Groups.</p>
<p><strong><em>You’ve looked closely at what benefits your members value most. What are some of the original benefits you still offer as the NEW BIA? </em></strong></p>
<p><strong>Mike:</strong> Our members have relied on us for more than 60 years to give them the tools to grow successfully, so when we expanded our offerings, we made sure that we retained our core benefits. The first on that list is the <a href="http://www.printing.org/biaconference">BIA Annual Conference</a>, for which members receive the maximum discount on their registration. For 2015 the conference <strong><em>[May 17-20, 2015, Minneapolis, MN]</em></strong><em> is </em>co-located with the <a href="http://pls14.printing.org/p/">2015 Print Leadership Summit</a>. So attendees will be rubbing elbows, so to say, with Presidents, CEOs, and top-level executives of printing companies. They can really get in front of decision makers and have a conversation about how they can help their business.</p>
<p>We also offer the BIA Members-only Listserv, listings on FindABindery.com, the Product of Excellence Awards, the e-newsletter <em>Bound for Excellence</em>, and more.</p>
<p><strong>How will the NEW BIA help members’ companies succeed?</strong></p>
<p><strong>Mike:</strong> We showcase the cutting-edge trends in finishing equipment and technology that members can learn how to apply to their operation. They can use what they learn to expand their offerings and product lines and branch into hot growing markets, such as packaging. As a result, they can increase on-time order delivery and meet customer demands. All around, they can become more competitive in their market. We’re not going to miss a beat at this year’s BIA Conference where we’ll feature some of these exciting new technologies and markets. This is really one of the biggest events of the year for the finishing industry because it prepares them to face the challenges ahead and keep making a profit and staying competitive.</p>
<p><strong>So where do we sign up? </strong></p>
<p><strong>Mike: </strong>Any finishing professionals or industry suppliers interested in joining the NEW BIA can visit our website [<a href="http://www.printing.org/bia">www.printing.org/bia</a>]. Companies now have the option to join the BIA directly, but when you become a member through a Printing Industries of America Affiliate Organization first, you definitely get the greatest ROI for your membership—discounts on a wider range of products and services, group discounts through the <a href="http://www.printing.org/buyingpower">National Buying Power Program</a>, digital access to <a href="http://www.printing.org/themagazine">Printing Industries of America: The Magazine</a>, and much more.</p>
<p>Registration is also open for the <a href="http://biaconference.printing.org/">2015 BIA Conference</a>, so I encourage industry members to come learn and network with us in May!</p>
<p>For more information on BIA membership benefits, or to join The NEW BIA, contact Mike Packard, Director, The BIA, at <a href="mailto:mpackard@printing.org" target="_blank">mpackard@printing.org</a>.</p>
<p><em>*Beginning January 2015, your company can participate in the 2015 </em>Ratios<em> for Trade Binders, Loose Leaf Manufacturers, and Finishers survey. Participants receive a FREE copy of the report. To buy the latest report for your market, the cost is $129 for members and $499 for non-members. As you can see, the cost of membership almost pays for itself with one report!</em></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em>Click the image below to download the <a href="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/bia/The%20NEW%20BIA%20Membership%20Brochure.pdf">NEW BIA Membership Brochure</a><br /></em></p>
<p><a href="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/bia/The%20NEW%20BIA%20Membership%20Brochure.pdf"><em><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/bia/BIA%20membership%20brochure.png" alt="" height="424" width="289" /></em></a></p>http://blog.printing.org/What_You_Need_To_Know_About_The_NEW_BIA#commentsGeneralConferencesThu, 06 Nov 2014 19:14:29 +0000mflynn@printing.org12034 at http://blog.printing.orgAn Inside Look at the Experts Driving the BIG Ideas for Printhttp://blog.printing.org/TAGA%20Conference%20Blog%20Keynote%20Speakers
<p>Each year we search the globe to find outstanding <a href="http://tagaatc.printing.org/program/keynotes/">keynote</a> speakers for the Technical Association of the Graphics Art (TAGA) Annual Technical Conference. After all, the conference has a reputation of highlighting some of the most dynamic thought leaders in our industry.</p>
<p>The print professionals, scientists, and researchers coming to the &nbsp;<a href="http://tagaatc.printing.org/">67<sup>th</sup> TAGA Conference</a>, March 22–25, 2015, in Albuquerque, NM, will hear thought-provoking keynote discussions on new print applications; print-centric, omni-channel marketing; national security innovations; and printed electronic opportunities. The headlining speakers bring a wide range of experience and expertise that drives the <em>BIG</em> ideas for the printing industry.</p>
<p><a href="http://tagaatc.printing.org/authors/chris-travis/"><strong>Chris Travis, Director of Technology, KBA</strong></a></p>
<p>Chris Travis has been involved in the printing industry since he was 15 years old. From an apprentice at a U.K. printing company, Chris went full-steam ahead, landing high-profile positions, including Experimental Printing Manager of Global Research and Development for Flint Ink before he began with KBA as Director of Technology. Chris is a major player in the company’s new and future technologies as well as sales, marketing, and product management.</p>
<p>He draws on this broad experience in his TAGA keynote session “<a href="http://tagaatc.printing.org/authors/chris-travis/">Ink on Substrate—New Printing Processes and Applications that Can Expand the Positioning of Today’s Printer</a>” where he explains how traditional printers can expand their portfolio by offering ancillary services to build new revenue streams using existing internal knowledge and processes.</p>
<p>KBA, headquartered in Dallas, TX, is the oldest and second largest press manufacturer in the world and has a history of influence in the technology market. The company earned multiple <a href="http://www.printing.org/intertechawards">InterTech™ Technology Award</a>s, the latest for its Flying JobChange in 2011.</p>
<p><a href="http://tagaatc.printing.org/authors/michael-van-haren/"><strong>Michael Van Haren, Postal Solutions Sales Manager, Quad/Graphics</strong></a></p>
<p>Mike Van Haren is a big believer in the power of print—especially when it is strategically linked and aligned with all other channels of marketing. For more than 25 years, he has dedicated his career to the print and media technology industry in a number of technical, marketing, business development, and operational management positions. He’s managed a variety of teams and worked with customers from around the globe.</p>
<p>With more than seven years at one of the largest magazine, catalog, and direct marketing printers in the Western Hemisphere, Quad/Graphics’ Postal Solutions Sales Manager is all about marketing solutions. Mike leads a team of sales consultants who guide customers in strategy and development of targeted, measurable, multichannel marketing solutions and assists them with postal optimization through innovative data management and analytics.</p>
<p>This evolving technology is the topic of Mike’s keynote session at the Annual TAGA Conference in March. He’ll present “<a href="http://tagaatc.printing.org/authors/michael-van-haren/">Using Data and a Print-centric Strategy to Manage Relevant, Timely Omni-channel Marketing</a>” and show how to successfully use customer and mail delivery data to make print the driver of timely, targeted and relevant omni-channel messaging that will help retain and grow market share.</p>
<p><a href="http://tagaatc.printing.org/authors/patrick-younk/"><strong>Patrick Younk, Staff Scientist, Los Alamos National Lab</strong></a></p>
<p>Before Dr. Younk’s research led him to astro-particle physics at Los Alamos National Lab in New Mexico (where he has published over 40 research articles), he worked for eight years as a research/design engineer in the printing industry. This experience in the printing industry, he says, has benefitted his work in experimental physics.</p>
<p>A graduate of Michigan Technological University, <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/profile/view?id=46849355&amp;authType=NAME_SEARCH&amp;authToken=FL1h&amp;locale=en_US&amp;srchid=1427794771414520023040&amp;srchindex=1&amp;srchtotal=2&amp;trk=vsrp_people_res_name&amp;trkInfo=VSRPsearchId%3A1427794771414520023040%2CVSRPtargetId%3A46849355%2CVSRPcmpt%3Aprimary">Dr. Younk</a> specializes in a broad range of machine (experiment) design, data analysis, and theoretical physics. His TAGA session, “<a href="http://tagaatc.printing.org/authors/patrick-younk/">Scientific and Technology Innovations for a Secure Country</a>” explores the remarkable research activity under way in such fields as national security, space exploration, and more.&nbsp;</p>
<p>His professional accolades include the Director's Post Doctoral Fellow, Los Alamos National Lab; Alexander von Humboldt Fellow; and Michigan Space Grant Fellow.</p>
<p><a href="http://tagaatc.printing.org/authors/bruce-kahn/"><strong>Dr. Bruce Kahn, Adjunct Professor, Graphic Communications, Clemson University</strong></a></p>
<p>It is safe to say that Bruce Kahn is dedicated to the field of printed electronics. He has been involved in the field for more than 11 years, not only teaching the subject at Clemson University but also consulting for companies in printed electronics, organic electronics, nanotechnology, nanofabrication, smart packaging, and radio frequency identification (RFID). Additionally he is a well-known author and trainer.</p>
<p>He discusses the reality of printed electronics and the future of this technology in his TAGA Conference keynote session, “<a href="http://tagaatc.printing.org/authors/bruce-kahn/">Printed Electronics: Opportunity, Challenge, and/or Hype?</a>”</p>
<p>Before he joined Clemson, Kahn was an Assistant Professor at the Rochester Institute of Technology. Here he started the Printable Electronics Research Program that investigated the influence of scale up and printing process parameters on printed devices using commercial-scale flexographic and gravure printing. His research has pursued the investigation, assessment, and development of the use of printing techniques (particularly high-volume printing processes) and materials for the fabrication of electronic devices. This work has produced (both small and production-scale) transparent conductive films, multilayer devices, chemical sensors, and antennas for RFID tags.</p>
<p>Kahn was recently awarded the 2014 Flexi Award for technology leadership in education from the FlexTech Alliance. Dr. Kahn has a Ph.D. in Chemistry from the University of Nebraska, and a B.S. in Chemistry from the University of Chicago.</p>
<p>Come see these experts in person at the <strong>67<sup>th</sup> Annual TAGA Technical Conference</strong><strong>, March 22–25, 2015, in Albuquerque, NM</strong>. Here you will find inspiring <a href="http://tagaatc.printing.org/program/">sessions</a> and <a href="http://tagaatc.printing.org/program/tour/">tours</a>, so grab a front seat to witness the research and technologies that are changing the future of the print and graphic arts industry. Register <a href="http://tagaatc.printing.org/register/">HERE</a>.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="http://tagaatc.printing.org/"><img src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/conferences/246_CK_TAGA_Homepage_Bnr_V2-2.jpg" alt="" height="251" width="718" /></a></p>http://blog.printing.org/TAGA%20Conference%20Blog%20Keynote%20Speakers#commentsGeneralConferencesWed, 05 Nov 2014 19:26:40 +0000mflynn@printing.org12031 at http://blog.printing.orgThe 3 New High-Speed Production Inkjet Applications to Take Your Color from Ho-Hum to Wow!http://blog.printing.org/Color%20Conference%20Speaker%20Blog%20Mike%20Herold%20and%20Nick%20Fiore%20of%20RICOH%20Company%20Limited
<p><em>This blog was adapted from “The Evolution of Color in High-Speed Production Inkjet” by </em><a href="http://cmc.printing.org/speakers/mike-herold/"><em>Mike Herold</em></a><em>, and Nick Fiore of RICOH Company Limited. You can read the full article in the November 2014 issue of </em><a href="http://printing.org/themagazine">Printing Industries of America: The Magazine</a><em>. Mike is a featured speaker at the </em><a href="http://www.printing.org/color"><em>2014 Color Conference</em></a><em>, December 6–9, in Scottsdale, AZ. </em><img style="float: right;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/colorblogimage.jpg" alt="" height="375" width="375" /></p>
<p>Where is digital inkjet now, where is it going, and how is it impacting you? </p>
<p>The fast-growing market of <a href="http://www.printing.org/page/6549">High-speed production inkjet</a> has transformed color printing in recent years. Today the opportunities are virtually limitless, affording greater capabilities and higher-coverage applications, such as direct mail, marketing collateral, books, and more. Digital inkjet now offers users the capabilities to produce rich color, completely variable, and full dynamic printing. As digital color consistency improves, much of this progress can be traced to new processes, inks, heads, coatings, and substrate options.</p>
<p>Let’s take a look at these sources of progress and the exciting new applications of high-speed production inkjet!</p>
<p><strong>1. Paper</strong></p>
<p>In high-speed production inkjet’s infancy, paper options were limited to say the least. Not optimized for high-volume piezoelectric drop-on-demand inkjet technologies, papers either absorbed too much ink or not enough. The result was less-then-desirable color output.</p>
<p>Over the past five years, and especially during the last two, this challenge has changed dramatically. New paper types, including recycled, inkjet coated, inkjet treated, and others have enabled customers to receive enticing output at a price appropriate for their markets.</p>
<p>The paper industry is also designing papers with specific ink types in mind, which is a huge step forward! Soon it may no longer be necessary to use coated papers, and users will have more choices without having to worry that their substrate is at odds with the color.</p>
<p><strong>2. Ink Developments and Advancements</strong></p>
<p>Inks are evolving as well with most high-speed inkjet vendors providing—and customers leveraging—a variety of dye, pigment, MICR, and other inks to meet the changing and growing demands for new applications. This diversity is enhancing color output and opening up a new world of applications for inkjet.</p>
<p>These new inks are higher density, more vibrant, and contain a lower water content to speed drying time and reduce the power needed to produce higher ink amount applications. But they’re not easy to formulate. Energy consumption, characteristics of the paper, color gamut, and finishing processes all need to be taken into consideration.</p>
<p><strong>3. Advances in Color and Ink Management Tools</strong></p>
<p>Next-generation controllers and workflows offer enhanced color management by size and object type, which lays the groundwork for more accurate color and consistent reproduction. Spot color dictionaries from Pantone and other color leaders enable spot color mapping, custom curves, and linked and unlinked advanced color management.</p>
<p>If you want to run high-color applications on production inkjet systems, inkjet tools have made it more feasible and less costly. You can even estimate ink usage before a job is printed because of tools that simulate printing! An inkjet system’s controller can track ink usage easily while the job is printing, and some can determine how to reduce ink usage while preserving the desired look and feel of the output.</p>
<p>Want to increase efficiencies and open up new revenue streams?&nbsp; High-speed production inkjet will continue to be an important platform for companies looking to expand their capabilities.</p>
<p>Get up to speed on the color capabilities of high-speed inkjet with Mike Herold, Director of Continuous Feed Inkjet Technologies and Business Development, RICOH, at the <strong>2014 Color Conference, December 6–9 in Scottsdale, AZ, with </strong><a href="http://cmc.printing.org/speakers/mike-herold/"><strong>Color Innovations in High Speed Production Inkjet</strong></a><strong>.</strong></p>
<p>This intense conference turns up the volume with industry-leading <a href="http://cmc.printing.org/speakers/">speakers</a> covering topics for professionals in design, branding, photography, print production, videography, and multimedia publishing. Seats are filling, so register ASAP at <a href="http://www.printing.org/color">www.printing.org/color</a>!</p>
<p><a href="http://cmc.printing.org/"><img src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/Color_EmailBanner_Gen1.jpg" alt="" /></a></p>http://blog.printing.org/Color%20Conference%20Speaker%20Blog%20Mike%20Herold%20and%20Nick%20Fiore%20of%20RICOH%20Company%20Limited#commentsGeneralConferencesWed, 05 Nov 2014 18:33:25 +0000mflynn@printing.org12030 at http://blog.printing.orgE-Learning ROI: Tips for Implementing a Successful Online Learning Programhttp://blog.printing.org/blog/12000
<p><em>“Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn.”</em></p>
<p>Ben Franklin understood that in-depth learning happens when a student is engaged in the learning process. For managers who want to improve their competitive stance, implementing an eLearning program for their employees can not only <strong><em>save them substantially when compared to traditional learning methods</em></strong>, it <strong><em>creates a richer, </em></strong><a href="http://blog.printing.org/blog/11909"><strong><em>more engaging</em></strong></a><strong><em> learning environment</em></strong><em>. (Find out more about the benefits of online learning for both managers and employees </em><a href="http://blog.printing.org/blog/11844"><em>here</em></a><em>.)</em></p>
<p>However, many online learning initiatives fail due to an inefficient plan or not having a plan at all.</p>
<p>Your organization may already be using an online training platform like the <a href="http://www.printing.org/ilearning">Integrated Learning Center</a>. To get the highest success—and ROI—out of your program, we recommend you first develop an online learning implementation strategy.</p>
<p>&nbsp;To help get you started, here are a few tips for launching your online training program:</p>
<ol>
<li><strong>Identify training needs—</strong>Is your operation facing declining sales volumes or profit losses due to incorrect or late jobs? Do you have new employees without much prior knowledge of the printing industry? Pinpoint your most immediate issues and ask yourself if training will lead to a solution. Match business needs with the appropriate type of training. <em>(</em><a href="http://www.icslearninggroup.com/sharedResources/Documents/ICS%20Whitepaper%20The%20Building%20Blocks%20Of%20A%20Successful%20eTraining%20Program.pdf"><em>ICS Learning Group</em></a><em>)</em></li>
<li><strong>Choose the right online learning platform—</strong>Look at your online learning platform as a long-term investment for your company. Some of the criteria managers use to evaluate platforms are 1) ease of access from multiple devices (including mobile), 2) benefits of each course, and 3) how the courses meet your specific business needs. <em>(</em><a href="http://www.syberworks.com/articles/bestpractices.htm"><em>Syberworks</em></a><em>)</em></li>
<li><strong>Gauge your employees—</strong>Many managers find that, to get maximum results, they need to “sell” online learning to their staff. Talking to them about 1) the equipment they use, 2) the certificates they hope to attain, 3) what time of day they prefer to learn, etc., gets employees more involved and can increase the overall success rate of your program. <em>(</em><em>Brandon Hall Research</em><em>)</em></li>
<li><strong>Measure performance—</strong>Keep tabs on employee improvements by developing benchmarks and evaluating training programs. Collect feedback <em>(</em><a href="http://www.syberworks.com/articles/bestpractices.htm"><em>Syberworks</em></a><em>)</em> and evaluate and refine your training regularly <em>(</em><a href="http://www.icslearninggroup.com/sharedResources/Documents/ICS%20Whitepaper%20The%20Building%20Blocks%20Of%20A%20Successful%20eTraining%20Program.pdf"><em>ICS Learning Group</em></a><em>).</em></li>
<li><strong>Create incentives—</strong>Research shows that accountability can drive employees to stick to their online learning goals. Managers who tie eLearning to performance reviews and require certifications have found that employees are more motivated and, in turn, less likely to fall off the online training wagon. <em>(</em><em>Brandon Hall Research</em><em>)</em></li>
<li><strong>Help make learning easier—</strong>Most of us learn better in an environment free of disruptions, i.e., phones ringing, emails chiming, or coworkers coming in and out. As a manager it is your choice of whether online courses are completed at the employee’s home or during work hours, but the bottom line is that they need a place where they can concentrate. By setting up a “classroom” in a separate area of your building or forwarding communications to the employee’s home, you can ensure your employee is getting the maximum learning benefit for their time. <em>(</em><em>Brandon Hall Research</em><em>)</em></li>
</ol>
<p>There are many ways to engage employees and get the highest return for your company’s online learning platform investment. Hopefully you will use these tips as a starting point to implement a successful online learning program.</p>
<p><em>Do you have any tips to share for other managers who are launching online learning programs? Share your thoughts here!</em></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/12000#commentsGeneralTraining/EducationWed, 24 Sep 2014 13:32:19 +0000sshea@printing.org12000 at http://blog.printing.orgFive Things You Could Do to Improve Your Color Consistencyhttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11999
<p>Helping companies produce accurate, consistent color is a full-time job for <a href="http://printing.org/staff/5201">Dillon Mooney</a>. As our Technical Consultant for the Center for Technology and Research, Dillon, a 30-plus-year industry veteran, has encountered many of the challenges your company faces each day.</p>
<p>Here Dillon dishes five key improvements you can make today to get the consistent color your customers demand.</p>
<p><em>(Psssst! If you’ve ever called our </em><a href="http://printing.org/hotline">Technical Hotline</a><em>, you probably already know Dillon—he answers more than 1,500 inquiries a year!)</em></p>
<ol>
<li>The success of color management depends on consistency of the output devices. Once color management is implemented, it must be managed through process controls to maintain its repeatability. Run <a href="http://printing.org/page/5402">color bars</a> on all jobs and include solid ink density patches, gray balance patches, 50% tint patches, and overprint patches to measure wet trapping. If you don't measure it, you cannot control it!</li>
<li>Consider using under some Gray Component Replacement (GCR). These techniques remove some of the CMY that makes up the grays and add weight to the K separation. This makes it easier to control the color on press.</li>
<li>To ensure your presses are printing consistently, first check that the solid ink densities are running at you shop’s standards. Additionally the tonal value increase (TVI or dot gain) values should be in an acceptable range. <br /> Once you’ve created a color profile, it will only work if the press is printing with the same attributes. To monitor this, make sure to regularly measure the solid ink densities, TVI, gray balance, and wet trapping values. If different solid ink densities are run on different jobs, the ink film thickness differences can affect TVI, gray balance and wet trapping. <br /> Slurring creates differences in TVI and will cause a shift in the color of a process image. Random slurring can cause the appearance of the color to change from sheet to sheet. A good slur indicator is the Ladder Bars on Printing Industries <a href="http://printing.org/page/5403">Test Forms</a>. Star Targets included in our color bars will also detect slurring.</li>
<li>Maintaining the consistency of the output of the press also involves standardizing consumables, including ink, plates, and fountain solution. Use process inks that are <a href="http://printing.org/iso2846">ISO 2846-1 compliant</a>. ISO 2844-1 inks are going to have very similar hue and saturation levels, and are specified in the G-7 methodology. <br /> Any time a different plate, blanket, fountain solution, or ink is used, check your process control aim points to ensure the press is printing the same way it was when the color management profile was created. Implement a preventive maintenance program that includes a good roller wash-up, deglazing, and roller setting procedure. For color management profiles to match your output, you need to address maintenance issues or face a gradual decline of press quality.</li>
<li>Use ISO 3664 viewing standards. Colors can appear different under various lighting conditions—this is referred to as a “metamerism effect.” <br /> ISO 3664 specifies a light source of D<sub>50, </sub>which is a 5,000 Kelvin spectrum, but has an expanded UV spectrum not available in standard 5,000 K bulbs. Perform critical color evolutions in a three-sided light booth (to block ambient room light) equipped with ISO 3664-compliant bulbs from a graphic arts viewing booth manufacturer. (Even a press console equipped with an overhead viewing light with ISO 3664 bulbs is probably not compliant due to ambient room light contamination.) <br /> Printing Industries’ <a href="http://printing.org/rhem">RHEM Light Indicator</a>, is a three-color metamerism patch that will indicate if the light is 5,000 K. The indicators are useful in ISO 3664 viewing areas to show if ambient room light is contaminating the viewing spectrum.</li>
</ol>
<p>Contact Dillon at <a href="mailto:dmooney@printing.org">dmooney@printing.org</a> or call the technical hotline at<strong> 800-910-4283 ext.786&nbsp;&nbsp; </strong><em>(Members, please have your Printing Industries member number ready when you call.)</em></p>
<p><strong>Need a solution? </strong></p>
<p>Talk to a professional consultant today! An expert at the Center for Technology and Research can customize a consulting or training service that meets the needs—and budget—of your operation.</p>
<p>Click <a href="http://printing.org/page/9568">HERE</a> for more details on Consulting and Custom Training.</p>
<p><strong>Professionals who work with color all worry about one thing … </strong><strong><em>accurate color!</em></strong></p>
<p>The <a href="http://www.printing.org/color"><strong>2014 Color Conference</strong></a><strong>, </strong>December 6–8, in Scottsdale, AZ, is programmed for print production professionals, creatives, photographers, marketers, and videographers. Understand why color accuracy is important inoptimized color reproduction and maintaining brand integrity across product lines and diverse production processes.</p>
<p>Click <a href="http://www.printing.org/color">HERE</a> to register for the 2014 Color Conference.</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11999#commentsGeneralResearch and TechnologyMon, 22 Sep 2014 19:33:15 +0000sshea@printing.org11999 at http://blog.printing.orgEnvironmental Sustainability in the Printing Industry: How one Pioneer’s Efforts are Recognizedhttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11990
<p>It’s a bright July morning, and a gathering of leaders in education, graphic arts, history, and environmentalism are convening in the beautiful, treasured venue of the <a href="http://www.cary.rit.edu%20" target="_blank">Melbert B. Cary Collection</a> housed at the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT), home of the School of Media Sciences, to recognize a true visionary, Dr. Laura Thompson.</p>
<p>Bridging time-honored tradition and innovative environmental stewardship, this is a significant event for the printing industry; not only because of the proud, highly deserving award recipient standing here today, but also because of her pioneering work to make the paper industry, and thus the printing industry, more environmentally friendly.</p>
<p><strong>Due Recognition</strong></p>
<p>Laura Thompson, Ph.D , Director, Technical Marketing and Sustainable Development, Sappi Fine Paper North America,&nbsp; is the recipient of the <a href="http://www.printing.org/page/3783">2013 William D. Schaeffer Environmental Award</a>. Unable to attend the official ceremony during Printing Industries of America’s Spring Administrative Meetings, May 31–June 1, 2014, in Dallas, TX, Stephen Whittaker, the 2011 Schaeffer Award winner and collegue of Dr. Thompson, personally offered to present her with the award. <img style="float: right;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/2014%20Schaeffer%20Blog%20Image_Award.JPG" alt="The 2013 William D. Schaeffer Environmental Award" height="226" width="175" /></p>
<p>At the alternate presentation, held at RIT, Dr. Thompson commented, “It is truly an honor to be recognized by PIA with this award. I was disappointed to not be able to attend the ceremony in Dallas, but Steve Whittaker was able to arrange for a very special presentation at one of the most respected graphic communication education centers in the world.”</p>
<p>Also on hand to join the celebration were the Dean of the College of Imaging Arts and Sciences, Program Coordinator for the School of Media Sciences (Print), two company representatives from the new Veritiv (formerly Xpedx), and the Curator and Assistant Curator of the RIT collection.</p>
<p>“Surrounded by the treasures of the Cary Collection, members of RIT faculty and staff, along with fellow paper industry members,” said Dr. Thompson, “it was truly a special moment to receive the award.”</p>
<p><strong>Dr. Thompson’s Impact</strong></p>
<p>Dr. Thompson’s extensive work shows how one person can make a significant impact on environmental issues. The 2013 judges were searching for an individual who excelled in every area, including education, public relations, continuous improvement, compliance assistance, regulatory issue involvement, and pioneering efforts.</p>
<p>“She freely shares her knowledge and enthusiasm for sustainable practices,” said one of the Schaeffer Award Judges. This enthusiasm helps to advance the environmental performance of the entire printing industry. The Board of Directors of the national Sustainable Green Printing Partnership, many of whom are past recipients of this award, also added their congratulations on her many accomplishments. <img style="float: right;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/2014%20Schaeffer%20Blog%20Image_Accepting_Thompson%20and%20Whittaker.JPG" alt="" height="168" width="254" /></p>
<p>In her role at Sappi Fine Paper, Dr. Thompson is responsible for working with the company’s leadership to set strategy, establish long-term goals, and drive key initiatives. She also serves as the thought leader behind Sappi’s eQ Brand, a multi-dimensional communication platform featuring videos, white papers, <a href="http://www.na.sappi.com/eQ/journal/journal005/"><em>The eQ Journal</em></a> (also available in print), and a blog, <a href="http://eq.tumblr.com/">The Environmental Quotient</a>.</p>
<p>One of Sappi’s recent environmental initiatives was to bring natural gas many miles to reach the Somerset, Maine, papermaking mill. Along the way, many small towns will take advantage of this fuel source as both the mill and individual households replace fuel oil as a primary source of energy!</p>
<p><strong>From One Pioneer to Another <br /></strong></p>
<p>Whittaker understands what it takes to lead successful environmental initiatives.&nbsp; With nearly 29 years of organizing dozens of effective third-party quality system audits for Monroe Litho, Inc., 20 years teaching as an Adjunct Professor in the Schoo<strong><img style="float: left;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/2014%20Schaeffer%20Blog%20Image_Thompson%20and%20Whittaker%20at%20Carey%20Library.JPG" alt="" height="180" width="272" /></strong>l of Print Media, College of Imaging Arts and Sciences at RIT, and other accolades, he received the Schaeffer Award in 2011.<br /> <br /> As a fellow environmental pioneer, he was proud to be able to present Dr. Thompson with this award “What a remarkable woman!” was Whittaker’s exclaim as he reflected on the event. “What a special privilege it now is for me, on behalf of the Printing Industries of America, to present this very special plaque.”</p>
<p><strong>A Work in Progress</strong></p>
<p>If Dr. Thompson’s success has any bearing on our industry as a whole, it shows that the efforts to strengthen the development of a sustainable industry are enduring. But can this forward progress be sustained for the next generations?</p>
<p>Dr. Thompson thinks that, as an industry, we can continuously improve sustainable practices. “I have the pleasure of representing Sappi, an outstanding paper company that has fully embraced sustainable development.&nbsp; And I am equally proud to be part of an industry that uses renewable resources and high levels of renewable energy to make products that are recyclable. While there remains progress to be made, the paper and graphic arts industry is uniquely and inherently sustainable”.</p>
<p><em>Do you know someone who is making a significant impact on our industry? Honor them with a nomination for one of the </em><a href="http://www.printing.org/printingindustryawards"><em>Printing Industries of America Award Programs</em></a><em>. &nbsp;</em></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11990#commentsGeneralHuman RelationsWed, 10 Sep 2014 19:45:19 +0000mflynn@printing.org11990 at http://blog.printing.orgMoving Up The Ladder: Why Successful Workplaces Are Putting Women In The Lead http://blog.printing.org/blog/11977
<p>Most business owners and HR professionals know that a diversified workplace has significant benefits, and gender diversity is critical. But do you know that the diversity of your firm compared to your competitors can affect your overall business success?</p>
<p>If you are a woman in this industry or thinking about entering, you’ll want to read this.</p>
<p>Having more women in key leadership roles isn’t just a good HR policy; it’s also <strong><em>directly related to the success of your business</em></strong>, according to a recent study from DDI and The Conference Board, titled <a href="http://www.ddiworld.com/resources/library/trend-research/global-leadership-forecast-2014#.U-4y_6PYEVh"><em>The Global Leadership Forecast (GLF) 2014 | 2015, Ready-Now Leaders: Meeting Tomorrow’s Business Challenges</em></a><em>.</em></p>
<p>The study examined 13,124 global leaders and 1,528 human resource executives representing 32 different industries from 48 countries. Of the 2,031 participating organizations, those in the top 20% of financial performance indicated significantly higher numbers of women in leadership positons.</p>
<p>Of the top 20% of surveyed businesses, the count of women in leadership positions was 37%, while those in the bottom 20% reported only 19%. The same went for women considered to have a “high potential” for leadership capabilities (or above-average employees with the potential to move into leadership roles).</p>
<table border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="213">
<p><strong>Firm’s Financial Standing</strong></p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="213">
<p><strong>Women as Leaders</strong></p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="213">
<p><strong>Women as “High Potential”</strong></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="213">
<p><strong>Top 20%</strong></p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="213">
<p>37%</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="213">
<p>12%</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="213">
<p><strong>Bottom 20%</strong></p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="213">
<p>19%</p>
</td>
<td valign="top" width="213">
<p>8%</p>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Women In Print: Still Room For Improvement</strong></p>
<p>When we compare these findings to the printing industry, numbers indicate that although we fall slightly below average, there have been strong improvements in the number of women leaders in print.</p>
<p>Take a look at the <a href="http://www.printing.org/page/11739">2013 Best Workplace in the Americas (BWA) Key HR Metrics</a> report, which analyzed 27 different graphic arts companies recognized for their outstanding human relations efforts that contribute to a successful workplace. The average percent of women in management positions at BWA award-winning companies was <strong>26.4</strong> or <strong>33.4% less</strong> when compared to the DDI study of world-wide companies. While men in management positions averaged at 73.6%.</p>
<p>(If your company has an outstanding HR program, consider entering the BWA competition. Learn more at <a href="http://www.printing.org/bwa" target="_blank">www.printing.org/bwa</a>.)</p>
<p>Similar results are shown in the 2011 <a href="http://app.streamsend.com/c/21884721/10547/lWHHoP1/IAAF?redirect_to=http%3A%2F%2Fprintmediacentr.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2014%2F07%2FDr_Twyla_-Cummings_Women_In_Graphic_Communications_Study_Results.pdf"><em>Visual Communications Journal</em></a> study of 349 women in the industry by Dr. Twyla J. Cummings, Senior Associate Dean and Professor, Graduate Executive Board Advisor, College of Imaging Arts and Sciences at Rochester Institute of Technology (posted on the <a href="http://app.streamsend.com/c/21884721/10545/lWHHoP1/IAAF?redirect_to=http%3A%2F%2Fprintmediacentr.com%2F2014%2F07%2Ffull-comparative-study-results-for-women-in-graphic-communication-are-in%2F">PrintMediaCentr.com</a> blog in July 2014). It indicates some key trends on how women are positioned in our industry today as compared to the findings of a similar study done in 2000.</p>
<p>Here are just a few of the significant findings:</p>
<ul>
<li>More women have titles of Sr. Manager/Owner and Middle Manager compared to the 2000 study. There was a drop in the reported number for Sales/Marketing, Customer Service, Education, Computer Technology, Accounting, and other.</li>
<li>Compared to the 2000 study, more women are working at small firms (with 50 or fewer employees) and large firms (500+ employees). There was a drop in reported numbers for women working at firms with between 51–500 employees.</li>
<li>Respondents indicated that the percent of women at their firms increased at larger firms (21+ employees), compared to smaller firms (20 or fewer employees).</li>
<li>Respondents indicated that more women held management positions at firms with 10+ employees; however, there was a drop for firms with less than 10 employees.</li>
<li>On the issue of “problems encountered during career,” increases were reported in “passed over for promotion,” “pay inequality,” and “sexual harassment.” Decreases were reported for “resentment from male counterparts” and “other.”</li>
</ul>
<p><em>Read the full report </em><a href="http://app.streamsend.com/c/21884721/10547/lWHHoP1/IAAF?redirect_to=http%3A%2F%2Fprintmediacentr.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2014%2F07%2FDr_Twyla_-Cummings_Women_In_Graphic_Communications_Study_Results.pdf"><em>here</em></a><em>.</em></p>
<p><strong>What We Can Learn</strong></p>
<p>Overall these new studies indicate that while there are greater, exciting opportunities for female leaders in printing and graphic arts firms today, graphic arts companies still have room to improve. The <a href="http://www.printing.org/bwa">Best Workplace in the Americas Award</a> winners, which represent some of the top industry companies, are leading the way. But women still have major hurdles to jump before the playing field is level. &nbsp;</p>
<p>Although these issues are not at all exclusive to the printing industry, we need to work to:</p>
<ol>
<li>Increase the number of qualified female leaders</li>
<li>Create an equal-opportunity environment that cultivates the diverse talents of everyone</li>
</ol>
<p>We’ve come a long way from a once predominately male skewed workforce, and the inclusion of more women in the graphic arts workforce, especially as executives, has created many positive effects, including a wider range of perspectives and problem-solving skills. These factors lead to a greater competitive advantage.</p>
<p><strong>Announcement:</strong> Congratulations to all of the 2014-2015 PGSF Scholarship recipients. See the list of future graphic arts leaders, including 117 young women, <a href="http://printing.org/news/11974">here</a>.</p>
<p><em>Will today’s female graphic arts students be the ones to create more positive change in the future?&nbsp; How can we ensure women have equal opportunities? Share your thoughts here!</em></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11977#commentsGeneralHuman RelationsTue, 19 Aug 2014 19:29:39 +0000mflynn@printing.org11977 at http://blog.printing.orgThere’s an Expert for That: Meet the Pros with Solutions at GRAPH EXPO 14http://blog.printing.org/blog/11972
<p>Picture this: Upon returning to the office from <a href="http://www.printing.org/graphexpo">GRAPH EXPO 14</a>, you meet with your boss to talk about a current project. What impresses her (more than that deep-dish Chicago-style pizza you had) is that you now have solid solutions to implement that save your company time and money!</p>
<p>Congrats to you, star employee, for discussing your challenges with the experienced, knowledgeable Printing Industries of America experts at <strong>Booth #3667.</strong> They’re here to answer your <strong><em>specific questions</em></strong> in person and help you find solutions related to EHS, integrated print, economic forecasting, and more.&nbsp;</p>
<p>We’ll show you just where you can meet them—at our booth, <a href="http://www.printing.org/page/11871">presenting seminars</a>, and throughout the show.</p>
<p><strong>Julie Shaffer<br /> Vice President, Digital Strategies</strong></p>
<p><span class="font-weight-bold">Years of experience</span>—I’ve been in industry in one aspect or another for more than 24 years. &nbsp;</p>
<p><span class="font-weight-bold">Main area of expertise</span>—My expertise has evolved. In prepress, I have solid knowledge in image editing, layout and design, color management, workflow automation, proofing, and imaging. Having managed the Digital Printing Council, I understand digital printing and production and direct marketing applications. I’ve written books on PDF, social media, and web-to-print. Now I’m focusing on 3D printing and developing online training programs to help members learn all of the above and researching new and disruptive technologies that may impact the industry.</p>
<p><span class="font-weight-bold">Julie’s integrated print tip</span>—“The USPS website is a great place to find case studies, templates, and tips for designing a direct mail piece. This great free resource is at&nbsp;www.usps.com/business/mail-it.htm.”</p>
<p><strong>Meet Julie—</strong>I’ll be demoing the new Integrated Learning Center at our booth, #3667. You can also find me presenting several seminars: “<a href="http://graph14.mapyourshow.com/5_0/sessions/sessiondetails.cfm?ScheduledSessionID=18A9CEC5">3D Printing: NEW Profit Pathway for Commercial Printers</a>,” Sunday, September 28 from 2:00–3:30 p.m. in R8; then “<a href="http://graph14.mapyourshow.com/5_0/sessions/sessiondetails.cfm?ScheduledSessionID=18A9CCC3">Color Management for ‘Non-Techies’</a>,” Monday, September 29, 4:00–5:30 p.m. in R31; finally a Computer Lab “<a href="http://graph14.mapyourshow.com/5_0/sessions/sessiondetails.cfm?ScheduledSessionID=18A9CAC6">Digital Print Design: 20 Things You MUST Know Now</a>,” Tuesday, September 30, 2:00–5:00 p.m.</p>
<p><strong><br /> </strong><strong>Ed Gleeson <br /> Director of Economics &amp; Market Research<br /> <br /> </strong><span class="font-weight-bold">Years of experience</span>—I’ve been in the industry for 8 years as an economic and market researcher.</p>
<p><span class="font-weight-bold">Main area of expertise</span>—Tracking industry trends such as profitability, sales, pricing, cost, etc., and providing the industry with this information so they can make better informed decisions.</p>
<p><span class="font-weight-bold">Ed’s tip for profitability</span>—“According to our <em>Ratios</em> database, small- and medium-size printers that are profit leaders are just as profitable as their larger counterparts. During the seminar, we’ll explore why profit leaders earn 4 to 5 times as much as the average printer.”</p>
<p><strong>Meet Ed—</strong>Join me forthe seminar, “<a href="http://graph14.mapyourshow.com/5_0/sessions/sessiondetails.cfm?ScheduledSessionID=18A9CBC6">Beyond Survival: NEW Success Strategies for Small &amp; Medium Sized Printers</a>,” on September 30, 8:30–10:00 a.m. in R36.</p>
<p><strong><br /> </strong><strong>Gary Jones <br /> Assistant Vice President, EHS Affairs<br /> <br /> </strong><span class="font-weight-bold">Years of experience</span>—27 years.</p>
<p><span class="font-weight-bold">Main area of expertise</span>—Federal (e.g., EPA, OSHA, DOT, CSPC, USDA, FTC, etc.), state, and local regulatory compliance, as well as assisting companies with their sustainability program development and implementation.</p>
<p><span class="font-weight-bold">Gary’s tip for compliance</span>—“Printing operations need to incorporate EHS compliance into their everyday business management activities.&nbsp;Appropriate resources and support must be provided to understand, achieve, and maintain compliance, which provides the baseline for sustainability programs. Managing compliance and becoming a sustainable manufacturing operation reduces operating costs and increases profitability.”</p>
<p><strong>Meet Gary—</strong>I look forward to meeting you at Booth #3667 and on the show floor, Sunday, September 28. I invite you to see my presentation at the International Newspaper Group (ING) Annual Conference at the Hyatt Regency Chicago, Saturday, September 27 from 11:15 a.m.–2:15 p.m. on “<a href="http://internationalnewspapergroup.org/">Environmental Sustainability 2014 and Beyond.</a>”</p>
<p><strong>Dr. Mark Bohan<br /> Vice President, Technology and Research</strong></p>
<p><strong>&nbsp;Years of experience—</strong>I have 25 years’ experience in the industry, and I’m continually looking to develop the printing process and increase productivity, quality, and profitability. For the past 8–10 years, I have been active in production inkjet. Additionally, I’ve been active in short-run printing for most of my career in various aspects and seen the evolution. &nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;<strong>Main area of expertise—</strong>Researching the latest trends and assessing new technologies and how printers can implement them. Several of these projects have been published in the press and also in <a href="http://www.printing.org/store">Printing Industries Press</a> publications. I enjoy traveling, sometimes around the world, to meet other researchers in the industry and speak on different topics like systems integration and CIM technologies and how operations can implement them. I am also on the CIP4 Advisory Board that represents users of technologies.</p>
<p>&nbsp;<strong>Mark’s technology tips—</strong>I have two actually. First, as jobs get shorter, the effective use of automation and productivity tools are essential in ensuring a profitable business. It is not the way in which you produce the product but rather why the customer needs your product. Another word of advice is if you don’t effectively control the environment in which you are printing, the press productivity and quality will suffer.</p>
<p>&nbsp;<strong>Meet Mark—</strong>I hope to see you at “<a href="http://graph14.mapyourshow.com/5_0/sessions/sessiondetails.cfm?ScheduledSessionID=18A9CBC2">Trend Alert: The Evolving Role of Production Inkjet</a>” that I am presenting along with my colleague, Jim Workman [Assistant Vice President, Center for Technology and Research] in R39 on Tuesday, September 30, 10:30 a.m. to noon. I will also discuss “<a href="http://graph14.mapyourshow.com/5_0/sessions/sessiondetails.cfm?ScheduledSessionID=18A9CEC1">The "Skinny" on Profit Opportunities in the Short Run Market</a>” in R11 4:00–5:30 p.m. on Sunday, September 28.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Jim Workman<br /> Assistant Vice President, Center for Technology and Research</strong></p>
<p>&nbsp;<strong>Years of experience—</strong>33 years in the graphic arts industry, 31 years serving the industry through Graphic Arts Technical Foundation and Printing Industries of America.</p>
<p>&nbsp;<strong>Main area of expertise—</strong>While I’m a generalist in many respects, I have developed a strong base of knowledge in Lean manufacturing and continuous improvement and in mailing issues. I have managed our successful Continuous Improvement Conferences for the last 15 years and also monitor mailing issues for the association. This year I’m serving as the co-chair of the Greater Pittsburgh Postal Customer Council. I also stay on top of technology developments by overseeing our <a href="http://www.printing.org/intertechawards">InterTech<sup>TM</sup> Technology Awards program</a> that recognizes technology innovations poised to have a significant impact on the industry. One area I’m particularly interested in is high-speed inkjet printing.</p>
<p>&nbsp;<strong>Jim’s improvement tip—</strong>Odds are that your employees have improvement ideas that aren’t being shared with management. Rapid improvement is not possible without mining these ideas and implementing a high percentage of them. By comparison, world-class companies receive dozens of improvement ideas per employee per year. It’s through continuously implementing small, incremental improvements that companies leave the competition behind. Figure out an effective way to capitalize on your employees’ ideas. Read more about <a href="http://www.printing.org/page/11652">capturing employees’ ideas</a>.</p>
<p>&nbsp;<strong>Meet Jim—</strong>I’ll be at our booth, #3667, assisting companies and demonstrating our press simulation software. You can also find me presenting “<a href="http://graph14.mapyourshow.com/5_0/sessions/sessiondetails.cfm?ScheduledSessionID=18A9CBC2">Trend Alert: The Evolving Role of Production Inkjet</a>” [along with Dr. Bohan] Tuesday, September 30, 10:30 a.m.–12:00 noon.</p>
<p>&nbsp;We look forward to meeting you at Printing Industries of America Booth #3667! To stay up to date, follow <a href="https://twitter.com/PrintInd">@PrintInd</a> and #GRAPHEXPO.&nbsp; For more information, visit <a href="http://www.printing.org/graphexpo">www.printing.org/graphexpo</a>.</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11972#commentsGeneralConferencesWed, 06 Aug 2014 15:12:48 +0000mflynn@printing.org11972 at http://blog.printing.orgThe More Things Change, the More Things Stay the Samehttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11948
<p><em>The following is a guest blog post from Kevin Cooper, author of </em><a href="https://system.printing.org/index.php?dispatch=products.view&amp;product_id=1024">Lean Printing: Cultural Imperatives to Success</a><em> and coauthor of&nbsp;</em><a href="https://system.printing.org/index.php?dispatch=products.view&amp;product_id=3436">Lean Printing: Pathway to Success</a><em>&nbsp;and&nbsp;</em><a href="https://system.printing.org/index.php?dispatch=products.view&amp;product_id=2616">Setup Reduction for Printers</a><em>.</em></p>
<p>We live in tumultuous times. We have all been taught since our earliest years that change is a constant, things change, the only constant is change, and probably many other pithy little sayings on the topic of change. With all of the focus that has been put on change it is still remarkable how difficult it is for organizations, and people, to enact and embrace change. <img style="float: right;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/pubs/BLOG-Cooper-headshot.jpg" alt="" height="266" width="177" /></p>
<p>Part of this relates to fear. Change is stressful. It takes energy to change something. Change takes focus and effort, we must do something differently. We all know this instinctively but that does not make it easier to do. Want to lose weight? You must change your exercise or eating behavior. Want to save more for retirement? The answer lies in changing your spending or saving habits. Easy to say, tougher to do.</p>
<p>Many printers have learned about the concept of Lean management over the past few years. Few printers have been successful to any great degree in implementing Lean principles. The lack of success in the industry is not because Lean is difficult to understand or because Lean has not been proven to be applicable. The biggest impediment to Lean success for printers lies in a desire to implement Lean principles without being willing to undertake the change necessary for sustainable success.</p>
<p>Lean is not a set of tools to layer on top of how you already do business. Lean is a fundamentally different way of managing your business. Being Lean means doing things differently than you currently do. Being Lean means changing the way you do things and that is no easier than losing weight or altering your spending habits late in life.</p>
<p>We all yearn for the magic pill that makes problems disappear. It does not exist. Change takes effort and hard work. Want to be Lean and improve your business? It is time to change.</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11948#commentsGeneralPublicationsTue, 15 Jul 2014 13:12:38 +0000mflynn@printing.org11948 at http://blog.printing.org9 Ways the New EPA Regulation for Solvent-Contaminated Wipes Affect Your Operationhttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11940
<p>The next time you clean equipment at your printing operation, double check before you throw away the towel! The solvent-contaminated towel, that is. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has passed new hazardous waste regulations that affect the way your operation needs to manage solvent-contaminated wipes.</p>
<p>With little fanfare, the Federal Solvent-Contaminated Wipes Rule took effect <strong><em>January 23, 2013.</em></strong> Our <a href="http://www.printing.org/ehs">Environmental, Health, and Safety department</a> has been involved with this rule from the beginning and has been closely following its development. They have been keeping members educated and answering question about the new requirements.</p>
<p>Since not all states have yet adopted this rule, you may still have to follow your current state policy, but just about all states will be adopting the new rule during 2014 and into 2015. Its purpose is to provide a minimum uniform set of requirements designed to protect human health and the environment, while providing for operational flexibility. This rule strikes the perfect balance.</p>
<p>The rule allows wipes managed according to the rule can be excluded from hazardous waste regulations, and this means <strong><em>the overall compliance cost for the industry</em></strong> <strong><em>will be reduced.</em></strong></p>
<p><strong>The bottom line is, if your state has adopted this rule, follow the regulations to be in compliance and save your company money.</strong></p>
<p>Here are the most important facts you need to know about how this new rule can affect your operation.</p>
<p>1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; It provides for more uniformity and consistency across the country as each state had its own policy or regulation that had different requirements.<br /><br />2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; It addresses both reusable wipes and disposable wipes. While all state policies and/or regulations addressed reusable wipes, only a couple of the states address disposable ones.<br /><br />3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The rule reduces the amount of solvents that are released into the environment.&nbsp;<br /><br />4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; As long as reusable wipes are managed according the requirements, they’re completely excluded from regulation as a solid and hazardous waste.<br /><br />5.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The rule also excludes disposable wipes from being regulated as a <em>hazardous waste</em> as long as they are managed according to the requirements and the use of one chemical, trichloroethylene, is avoided.<br /><br />6.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; It covers wipes that are used for cleaning equipment and spills. Under the previous rule, wipes used to clean up spills were always regulated as a hazardous waste. Now they are excluded based on the type (reusable or disposable) and if the proper management practices are followed.<br /><br />7.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The EPA has established flexible management and compliance demonstration requirements, which include:</p>
<ul>
<li>&nbsp;All containers that store solvent-contaminated wipes must be properly labeled and firmly closed while being collected and sealed when the wipes are being removed from the facility.</li>
<li>There is a 180-day time limit to remove the wipes from the facility once they are contaminated.</li>
<li>The wipes must contain “no free liquids” when they are removed from the facility.</li>
<li>Complete documentation must be kept for all wipe containers with information such as destination facility and how the facility is meeting the accumulation time and the “no free liquids” policy.</li>
</ul>
<p>8.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Even though the EPA issued a national rule, it is considered <em>de-regulatory</em>. That means it will not become effective in any state until all states and territories adopt it.<br /><br />9.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; As of January 31, 2014, the rule has already gone into effect in Alaska, Iowa, Illinois, Pennsylvania, Virginia, North Carolina, Florida, New Jersey, and the Virgin Islands. Minnesota said that they do not plan on adopting the rule, as their current rule is more stringent than EPA’s rule.</p>
<p>Printing Industries of America members through their affiliate can click <a href="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/downloadable_products/1401FC1_General.pdf"><strong>here</strong></a> to access the full article, “Federal Solvent-Contaminated Wipe Rule Provides Regulatory Relief,” from <em>Printing Industries of America: The Magazine Forecast Part 1: Trends and Tactics. </em></p>
<p><strong>More Resources</strong></p>
<p><a href="https://system.printing.org/index.php?dispatch=products.view&amp;product_id=7420">New EPA Rules for Solvent Contaminated Wipes (Shop Towels) (Webinar)</a></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11940#commentsGeneralGreen and SustainabilityThu, 03 Jul 2014 15:20:40 +0000mflynn@printing.org11940 at http://blog.printing.orgIn the Name of Print: How Printing Industries of America and our Affiliates Are Fighting to Promote the Value of Print (Part 2)http://blog.printing.org/blog/11931
<p>Through this series of blogs, the campaign leaders of <a href="http://www.printing.org/valueofprint">Value of Print</a>, <a href="http://chooseprint.org/index.html">Choose Print</a>, and <a href="http://printgrowstrees.org/index.html">Print Grows Trees</a> are revealing the effects these campaigns are having on the industry and how they’re fighting to help educate print buyers.</p>
<p>In <a href="http://blog.printing.org/blog/11920">Part One</a> Lisa Rawa, Vice President of Marketing for Printing Industries of America, gave insights into the successful <a href="http://www.printing.org/valueofprint">Value of Print</a> campaign, including reactions from industry members. Here in Part Two, we travel to Printing Industries of America’s southern California affiliate, Printing Industries Association, Inc. of Southern California (PIASC), and their solid campaign to educate consumers about print.</p>
<p>When we look at today’s marketing, we see that it’s heavily focused on “engaging” customers. Well what’s a more engaging medium than print? Print is tactile. It’s visual. And it is an essential part of a larger, interactive multi-channel marketing campaign.</p>
<p>The tactility of print is just one of the key messages promoted by <a href="http://chooseprint.org/index.html">Choose Print</a>, the powerful multimedia campaign by PIASC. Since the campaign launched in January 2011, Choose Print has become another integral go-to resource for print professionals in California and beyond and featured at trade shows and in articles from industry publications.</p>
<p>We spoke with Ara Izquierdo, EVP/COO of PIASC as she shared how their strategic messaging is impacting consumers.</p>
<p><strong>1. One significant advantage of print is no doubt its tangibility. How are you driving the tactile benefits of print, and what effects are you seeing from this messaging?</strong></p>
<p>ChoosePrint is a multi-media campaign, so we have taken a multimedia approach to driving home this message.</p>
<p><strong>Tactile Print Pieces </strong>are really our core medium.Among the pieces we have produced, there are two specific pieces that demonstrate the message. The first piece was “Print is Rich.” The front side of this postcard was 4-color process, embossed and engraved on 80# Classic Crest Smooth Cover Solar White stock. Mounted to this was the back side, which was Xerox color digital and foil stamped on 105# Esse Digital Cover Pearlized White. The second piece, “<a href="http://chooseprint.org/PrintAds/Touch_PrintIsWonderfullyTactile.pdf">Touch</a>,” is an engraved and blind embossed 8½ × 11-inch piece printed on Classic Crest Cover Avalanche White 100C Eggshell Finish.</p>
<p align="center"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hwKHShgfAKA&amp;feature=youtu.be"><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/chooseprintblogvideoplayscreen.jpg" alt="" height="212" width="352" /></a>Print delivers tactile information—just one of the reasons you should Choose Print.</p>
<p>These pieces have been used as <strong>Direct Mail </strong>and <strong>Magazine Inserts.</strong> “Print is Rich” was mailed out as part of a two-year postcard campaign targeting ad agencies and print buyers. The “Touch” piece was inserted into the May/June 2014 issue of GDUSA magazine.</p>
<p>Additionally, <strong>Trade Shows </strong>offer an opportunity to reach consumers. “Print is Rich” was distributed to designers and print buyers at the 2013 HOW Design Conference as well as numerous industry and non-industry events. “Touch” will be distributed at the 2014 HOW Design Conference.</p>
<p>Combining print and digital, QR codes on each piece linked to <strong>Videos</strong> showing their production and discussing the fact that part of the beauty of print is that it’s tactile.</p>
<p>Another medium we use are <strong>Articles.</strong> The March/April issue of GDUSA featured our article on “Print is Gloriously Tactile.” This article is now on the “<a href="http://chooseprint.org/GetInvolved.html">Downloads</a>” page of the ChoosePrint.org website, where it is readily available for reprinting in company newsletters and marketing materials.</p>
<p>Finally <strong>Social Media </strong>has been a valuable tool in promoting print’s tangibility on Facebook and Twitter.</p>
<p>The results of these efforts have been extremely positive. In fact, just seeing the reaction of the designers and print buyers at last year’s HOW Conference as they ran their fingers through the embossed lettering and gold engraved mask on the postcard said it all!</p>
<p><strong>2. On the </strong><a href="http://chooseprint.org/index.html"><strong>Choose Print</strong></a><strong> website, you host a variety of educational resources. In what ways are these tools helping students and teachers? How do you think we can influence students’ views on printed and digital media as they become the next generation of print buyers?</strong></p>
<p>The best way to influence students is with facts ... and Choose Print is an educational campaign loaded with facts. There are numerous studies and stats that show that <a href="http://blog.printing.org/blog/11798">young people still favor print</a>; therefore, print itself does a good job of attracting the next generation of print buyers.</p>
<p>To encourage them to choose print, we provide them with the information that confirms print’s value: that print is not only recyclable, renewable, and sustainable—it’s also a proven way to drive online sales and deliver results.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
<p><em>Read Part One of the blog series, “In the Name of Print,” </em><a href="http://blog.printing.org/blog/11920"><em>here</em></a><em>. Stay tuned for Part Three!</em> Learn more about the Value of Print by visiting <a href="http://www.printing.org/valueorprint">www.printing.org/valueorprint</a>. Check out the Choose Print website at <a href="http://chooseprint.org/index.html">http://chooseprint.org/index.html</a>.</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11931#commentsGeneralMember ResourcesFri, 27 Jun 2014 19:07:30 +0000mflynn@printing.org11931 at http://blog.printing.orgStart Planning Your Trip to GRAPH EXPO: Which Seminars Are Right for You?http://blog.printing.org/blog/11930
<p><img src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/blog/graphblogheader.jpg" alt="" height="189" width="640" /></p>
<p>What do you want to gain at GRAPH EXPO 14?</p>
<p>If it’s strategies you can apply to your business, consider attending one or more <a href="http://www.printing.org/page/11871">GRAPH EXPO seminars</a> presented by several Printing Industries of America experts while you’re there!</p>
<p>To get the most out of your experience at the biggest trade show in our industry, come pencils in hand and ready with your most vital questions—What are the smartest new technologies to invest in, and how can we apply them to our business? How can we survive in a changing market? What best practices can we use to produce the optimum output for our customers?</p>
<p>For eager professionals like you, there are plenty of opportunities to learn at GRAPH EXPO 14. Unfortunately, there’s just not enough time to experience it all.</p>
<p>To help you decide which seminars are right for you, take this four-question quiz. We’ll give you your recommended GRAPH EXPO seminar, and you can learn which sessions will be the best investment of your valuable time at the show!</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>1. What do I most want to learn at GRAPH EXPO 14 and take back to my company?</strong></p>
<p>A. How to stay at the forefront of new growth industries as a commercial printer.</p>
<p>B. How to keep up to date with evolving markets.</p>
<p>C. How the changing economy will impact my business.</p>
<p>D. How to get better quality digital files in prepress.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>2. If I could get insight into one aspect about my competitors’ business and strategies, it would be:</strong></p>
<p>A. What do they know about some of the most out-there technologies that we don’t?</p>
<p>B. How are they creating new business opportunities in areas like packaging and short-run markets?</p>
<p>C. What strategies are different size companies using to survive in the current economy?</p>
<p>D. How do they consistently create color-managed, output-ready files and deliver to their customers on time?</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>3. My ideal learning environment includes</strong></p>
<p>A. Learning the ins and outs of new technologies.</p>
<p>B. Hearing actual industry case studies based on other companies’ experiences.</p>
<p>C. Focusing on the big picture data then honing down to the micro-details.</p>
<p>D. Hands on instruction!</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>4. At my facility my primarily responsibilities include</strong></p>
<p>A. Finding and assessing the newest technologies and business avenues for potential investments for sales and marketing opportunities.</p>
<p>B. Keeping up with industry trends so that my company doesn’t miss a profitable opportunity, whether it be for operations or sales.</p>
<p>C. Continuously assessing the economy and how it’s affecting our industry, our firm, and our competitors.</p>
<p>D. Learning the latest prepress techniques to keep my company competitive and profitable.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Your Results</strong></p>
<p><strong>Mostly As</strong></p>
<p><strong>Your GRAPH EXPO Seminar—3D Printing: NEW Profit Pathway for Commercial Printers<br /> Julie Shaffer, Vice President, Digital Strategies</strong></p>
<p><strong>You will learn</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>All about the 3D printing/additive manufacturing industry today</li>
<li>What’s being created, from the mundane to the most “out-there”</li>
<li>About the consumer market (under $2,000 machines) versus production market and determining where your best equipment investment lies</li>
<li>The most viable 3D printed products/markets to go after</li>
<li>What it takes to get a 3D printing operation up and running</li>
<li>Why “our” printing device vendors have an eye on this market too</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Who should attend:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Owners and presidents</li>
<li>CTOs and CFOs</li>
<li>Production managers</li>
<li>Operations managers</li>
<li>Sales managers</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p><strong>Mostly Bs</strong></p>
<p><strong>Your GRAPH EXPO Seminar—</strong><strong> The "Skinny" on Profit Opportunities in the Short Run Market <br /> Mark Bohan, Vice President, Technology and Research</strong></p>
<p><strong>You will learn:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Changing market demands</li>
<li>Business structure and philosophy</li>
<li>Advantages of different print processes</li>
<li>Technological solutions to streamline the business</li>
<li>Case studies from leading companies</li>
</ul>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Who should attend:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Owners</li>
<li>Production managers</li>
<li>Operations managers</li>
<li>Sales managers</li>
</ul>
<p><strong><br /> Trend Alert: The Evolving Role of Production Inkjet<br /> Mark Bohan, Vice President, Technology and Research</strong></p>
<p><strong>You will learn:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Current state of production inkjet</li>
<li>Differences between inkjet solutions</li>
<li>Technical challenges</li>
<li>Opportunities by market segment</li>
<li>Disruptive influences on industry</li>
<li>Best business opportunities right now</li>
</ul>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Who should attend:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Owners and presidents</li>
<li>CTOs and CFOs</li>
<li>Production managers</li>
<li>Operations managers</li>
<li>Sales managers</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p><strong>Mostly Cs</strong></p>
<p><strong>Your GRAPH EXPO Seminar—Beyond Survival: NEW Success Strategies for Small and Medium Size Printers<br /> Ed Gleeson, Director, Economic and Market Research</strong></p>
<p><strong>You will learn:</strong></p>
<p>• The economic forces that can impact your business</p>
<p>• How the economy affects smaller businesses differently than larger firms</p>
<p>• Where small and medium businesses can best thrive in the marketplace</p>
<p>•&nbsp;What the future holds for smaller businesses based on today’s economy</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Who should attend:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Owners and presidents</li>
<li>CTO’s, CFO’s</li>
</ul>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Mostly Ds</strong></p>
<p><strong>Your GRAPH EXPO Seminar—</strong><strong> Digital Print Design: 20 Things You MUST Know Now!<br /> Julie Shaffer, Vice President, Digital Strategies </strong></p>
<p><strong>You will learn</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Dynamic digital printing: What are the business opportunities?</li>
<li>No-nonsense tips for handling and correcting color images for digital printing</li>
<li>Using transparency in a document: rules to follow and live versus flattened</li>
<li>Fonts: organizing, corruption, and when not to use them</li>
<li>Critical issues to consider when designing for digital printing</li>
<li>How to create PDF files that are digital-press-ready</li>
<li>Diagnostic and repair tools you must use in Adobe CS</li>
<li>Mailing considerations and limitations when designing for digital</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Who should attend: </strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Designers and creatives</li>
<li>Print buyers</li>
<li>Prepress professionals</li>
<li>Anyone who works with files destined for print</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>Learn more about GRAPH EXPO 14 and co-located CPP EXPO at <a href="http://www.printing.org/graphexpo">www.printing.org/graphexpo</a>. While you’re here, don’t forget to visit the <strong>Printing Industries of America booth #3667.</strong></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11930#commentsGeneralMember ResourcesThu, 26 Jun 2014 17:52:46 +0000mflynn@printing.org11930 at http://blog.printing.orgYour Evolving Makereadyhttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11928
<p><span style="color: #ff0000;">The following is a guest blog post from Malcolm Keif, Cal Poly, coauthor of <a href="https://system.printing.org/index.php?dispatch=products.view&amp;product_id=3436"><em>Lean Printing: Pathway to Success</em></a> and <a href="https://system.printing.org/index.php?dispatch=products.view&amp;product_id=2616"><em>Setup Reduction for Printers</em></a></span>. <img style="float: right;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/pubs/BLOG-Keif-headshot.jpeg" alt="" height="216" width="216" /></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Recently a great video has been circulating around social media showing a Formula 1 pit stop from the 1950s in contrast to a pit stop from 2013. (If you haven’t seen it, check it out <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RRy_73ivcms">here</a>) In this two minute video you’ll see how radically pit stops have evolved in sixty years. It is fascinating how the sport has changed in technologies, processes, personnel, tools, metrics, and attitudes.</p>
<p>We have seen similar changes in the printing industry over as many decades. Printing technology has improved tremendously, especially from the standpoint of process control. Even with makereadies, equipment manufacturers have done a great job of focusing on quick-changeover improvements. CIP4, servo technology, inline register and color control, and many other improvements have brought printing into a science. However, in some ways the entire printing system (all interdependent processes working together), including our material staging, methodology for changing plates and inks, use of strategic personnel, as well as our sense of urgency about the makeready, are more similar to the 1950s version than the 2013 version. How often do we rehearse a makeready…or even discuss a strategic approach, for that matter?</p>
<p>Those of us who are lean proponents liken the pit stop to a press or bindery makeready, mostly because it speaks to where crucial seconds can be picked up in a competition. We acknowledge that no progress is being made to reaching the finish line when the car is in the pits. It is not a value-add process, though it is necessary to keep the car running. Isn’t that true of a makeready? It is not a value-add process…but it is necessary to complete the job. So, why not approach a makeready with the same strategy and urgency as a Formula 1 pit stop?</p>
<p>The best way to improve makereadies in a company is through an intentional human development approach (education and training). It should also be part of a larger lean thinking initiative. You are really teaching your employees how to think lean. It involves reiterating your vision about value-add and providing the tools your employees need to rethink the makeready. It is simple, but not easy. Our tendencies are to do things the way we have always done them, even when we get new equipment – it may be faster on the racetrack but just as slow in the pits. Let’s face it, if a Formula 1 team came to a race with 1950s pit stop strategies, they couldn’t possibly finish anything but last. Why then do we sometimes approach makereadies with those same outdated approaches?</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11928#commentsGeneralPublicationsWed, 25 Jun 2014 14:00:44 +0000mflynn@printing.org11928 at http://blog.printing.orgCompare 49 Software Solutions in 1 Place with New MIS Surveyhttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11924
<p>As printing companies expand, sooner or later, they outgrow their Management Information System (MIS). Software must meet current needs by providing e-commerce, file submission, and more end-to-end solutions.</p>
<p>If you’ve ever had to purchase a new MIS, you know it can be a daunting task. There is a lot riding on this one integral software solution that must integrate seamlessly into many different parts of the production process. Plus it’s extremely challenging to calculate the ROI, because of the fact that it is a software solution.</p>
<p>How would you like to be able to compare and analyze a variety of different MIS?&nbsp;</p>
<p>A new Technology Bulletin just released from the Center for Technology and Research, the <a href="http://www.printing.org/page/5395"><strong><em>2014 Printing Industries of America Survey of Management Information Systems,</em></strong> </a>&nbsp;profiles 49 different software programs. We asked each vendor to dish all of the details on their software so you can compare them side by side. The result is more than 300 pages of invaluable data to help you choose the <em>right</em> MIS to gain new efficiencies and a greater ROI.</p>
<p><strong>Solutions You Need to Know</strong></p>
<p>Section one lets you see the actual survey results from all 49 vendors. From accounting and estimating functions to real-time data collection, this feedback is especially helpful in getting a comprehensive understanding of each vendor’s capabilities. Then, in section two, all that data is collated into a convenient overview of all of the companies.</p>
<p><strong>Break It Down</strong></p>
<p>Many printers have specific needs that their new MIS must meet, whether it’s cost, specific functionality, operating system compatibility, and so forth. Each MIS is broken down based on these different criteria to allow you to directly compare based on the needs of your operation.</p>
<p><strong>Case Studies and User Feedback</strong></p>
<p>Before making this important purchase decision, become a better-informed buyer. New for 2014, the MIS Survey also provides additional resources with company case studies and customer testimonials. You can also read vendor white papers and press releases on the software. <br /> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>The 2014 MIS Survey is available free for Printing Industries of America members at </strong><a href="http://www.printing.org/free"><strong>www.printing.org/free</strong></a>(you must be logged in to our website as a member).</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11924#commentsGeneralResearch and TechnologyWed, 11 Jun 2014 19:40:26 +0000mflynn@printing.org11924 at http://blog.printing.orgAnatomy of a Best Workplace: Insights From the 2013 Award Winning Companieshttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11922
<p><img src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/bwablogimage.jpg" alt="" height="426" width="640" /></p>
<p>From solid management practices to financial security to work-life balance, there are considerable elements that go into creating a successful, profitable workplace environment. Although each company is different, the industry’s <a href="http://www.printing.org/bwa">Best Workplaces</a> do share distinctive commonalities.</p>
<p>The parallels allow these companies to recruit and retain qualified workers—people who are more satisfied with their jobs and, therefore, more productive and efficient. Greater efficiency leads to increased profitability and a greater competitive edge.&nbsp;</p>
<p>What if you could get behind the scenes and see what these leading companies are doing? How competitive are their <strong><em>wages and benefits</em></strong>? How do they handle <strong><em>health care issues</em>?</strong> What <strong><em>employee training</em></strong> methods do they use? What <strong><em>incentive programs</em></strong> are working for them?</p>
<p>Each year the <a href="http://www.printing.org/bwa">Best Workplace in the Americas (BWA) program</a> judges companies based on eight main areas: management practices, work environment, training and development opportunities, recognition and rewards, workplace health and safety, health and well-being programs, financial security, and work-life balance. The practices of winning firms—the top HR programs in the industry—are compiled in the <a href="http://www.printing.org/page/11739">Key HR Metrics</a> report.&nbsp;</p>
<p><em>Enter the </em><a href="http://www.printing.org/bwa"><em>2014 Best Workplace in the Americas</em></a><em> program to showcase your company’s superior HR program.)</em></p>
<p>Here’s your chance to go behind the curtain of the printing industry’s top companies. Take a look at these highlights from the <a href="http://www.printing.org/page/11739">2013 HR Metrics Survey</a> and see the practices of your competitors:</p>
<p><strong>Management practices</strong></p>
<ul>
<li><strong><em>Sexual harassment training</em></strong> for all staff members should be performed every 24 months, and new hires should receive training during orientation.</li>
<li>Provide written <strong><em>job descriptions</em></strong> and annual<strong><em> performance reviews</em></strong> for all employees. (For Americans with Disabilities Act purposes, job descriptions ideally should have “essential functions” noted on job descriptions.)</li>
<li>How many women and minorities hold management positions in your organization? Top companies have comparable numbers to the national average. (Find current averages at <a href="http://www.eeoc.gov">www.eeoc.gov</a>.)</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Work environment</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>And how about your <strong><em>turnover rate?</em></strong> Strive for 8.4% or lower.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Training and development opportunities</strong></p>
<ul>
<li><strong><em>Cross-train</em></strong> employees. A total of 89% of BWA winners had more than 80% of their staff trained across a range of areas.</li>
<li>Create a <strong><em>succession plan</em></strong> for an aging workforce. Seventy-four percent of BWA firms&nbsp; had succession plans for senior managers, 59% for key managers, and 56% for key non-managerial employees.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Recognition and rewards</strong></p>
<ul>
<li><strong><em>Incentivize employees.</em></strong> Well-designed plans will pay off and increase profitability and efficiency. (The <a href="https://system.printing.org/index.php?dispatch=products2.view&amp;product_id=7357"><em>2013 Wage and Benefits Survey</em></a>compiles successful ideas from more than 500 companies.)</li>
<li>Develop <a href="http://www.printing.org/blog/11741"><strong><em>employee recognition programs</em></strong></a>. You can find customizable certificates <a href="http://www.printing.org/erp">here</a>.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong><em>Workplace health and safety</em></strong></p>
<ul>
<li>To keep your <strong><em>injury and illness rate</em></strong> low, you may want to institute a Safety Committee with a mix of hourly and managerial employees.</li>
<li>If your company has persistent injuries and illnesses, address the issues with a <strong><em>targeted training program.</em></strong></li>
<li>By creating a <strong><em>written disaster plan</em></strong> in addition to maintaining a low injury and illness rate, your company can avoid OSHA citations. (Read more about OSHA citations for the printing industry <a href="http://www.printing.org/page/3608">here</a>.)</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Health and well-being programs</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Examine wage and benefit surveys annually through your local Printing Industries’ affiliate to ensure you’re competitive with <strong><em>company/employee health care premiums.</em></strong></li>
<li>Offer <strong><em>health-risk assessments</em></strong> to employees (and dependents).</li>
<li>Other <strong><em>wellness program</em></strong> investments like workout rooms, smoking cessation programs and incentives, etc.</li>
<li>Offer short- and long-term disability insurance.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Financial security</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Review competitive practices of your <strong><em>retirement plans</em></strong> and applicable <strong><em>profit sharing plans</em></strong> with wage/benefit surveys.</li>
<li>For <strong><em>retirement planning,</em></strong> most BWA firms’ 401(k) contributions were around 6%, and they also provided financial advisors for employees (and their spouses).</li>
<li>Provide <strong><em>credit union membership </em></strong>and<strong><em> life insurance.</em></strong></li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Work-life balance</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Provide competitive employee <strong><em>time-off programs.</em></strong></li>
<li>Encourage employee involvement in <strong><em>community charitable organizations and events.</em></strong></li>
</ul>
<p><em>Read the full report, including a breakdown of the 2013 BWA Metric Averages </em><a href="http://www.printing.org/page/11739"><em>here</em></a><em>. </em></p>
<p>If your company has invested in a top-notch HR program, consider entering the 2014 Best Workplace in the Americas program. Compete with industry companies throughout the U.S. and Canada. As a winner, you’ll be promoted through local and national media, gain recruiting and marketing benefits, and receive a plaque to display.</p>
<p>Enter the <a href="http://www.printing.org/bwa">2014 Best Workplace in the Americas</a> program today. The deadline is September 30.</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11922#commentsGeneralHuman RelationsTue, 10 Jun 2014 13:49:18 +0000mflynn@printing.org11922 at http://blog.printing.orgIn the Name of Print: How Printing Industries of America and Affiliates Are Fighting to Promote the Value of Print (Part 1)http://blog.printing.org/blog/11920
<p><img src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/vopblogbanner.jpg" alt="" height="190" width="640" /></p>
<p>Today there is a great need for education on the effectiveness and sustainability of print. There are many common misconceptions to counteract, but it takes more than one voice to spread the message.</p>
<p>Together Printing Industries of America and our Affiliates have developed distinct, dedicated pro-print campaigns, <a href="http://www.printing.org/valueofprint">Value of Print</a>, <a href="http://chooseprint.org/index.html">Choose Print</a>, and <a href="http://printgrowstrees.org/index.html">Print Grows Trees</a>. They share one core mission—to educate and increase awareness of print’s vitality using the latest facts and statistics from the most reliable sources. Industry members look to these resources for collated information and tools to promote the vitality of print.</p>
<p>In this three-part blog series, we will look at each of these campaigns. You will hear directly from the campaign leaders about the effects these campaigns are having on the industry and examine how they are fighting to help educate print buyers.</p>
<p>Lisa Rawa understands how important print is in multi-media marketing. As Vice President of Marketing for Printing Industries of America, she has been at the forefront of the <a href="http://www.printing.org/valueofprint">Value of Print</a> campaign that’s combined print, Web, and mobile to communicate the vitality of print since 2009. Thanks to great publicity opportunities, you can say this campaign is “breaking new ground” for the print and graphic arts industry.</p>
<p><strong>1. To complement the <em>Value of Print Flip-Book</em>, you’ve incorporated a dedicated </strong><a href="http://value.printing.org/"><strong>webpage</strong></a><strong> and </strong><a href="http://value.printing.org/page/10574#mobile"><strong>mobile app</strong></a><strong>. In what ways have you seen people use these online and offline tools to defend the value of print? </strong></p>
<p>LR: The <em>Flip-Book</em> has been a huge success. Our users tell me how pleased they are to have this resource to display on their desk and even in their company lobbies for clients to read.</p>
<p>As a multi-media campaign, the Value of Print was designed to allow the print and graphic arts community access to important information anytime, anywhere. To do that we knew we wanted a digital complement to our printed <em>Flip-Book</em>. Our website not only allows you to view facts, articles, and other resources, and you can also download a PDF of the <em>Flip-Book</em> to distribute to clients. With the app, they can just use their smartphone or tablet to get Value of Print facts. There’s also a searchable <em>Print Market Atlas</em> that lets you find national, state, and regional print statistics.</p>
<p>Print professionals tell me that they use the Value of Print app during client meetings or at conferences and tradeshows like <a href="http://www.printing.org/graphexpo">GRAPH EXPO</a> to educate their customers. Teachers are some of our most enthusiastic supports who not only use the tools but also encourage their students to use them as well.</p>
<p><strong>2. The </strong><a href="http://www.printing.org/valueofprint"><strong>Value of Print</strong></a><strong> campaign has even crossed boundaries into public television. In 2013 it was featured in the public television produced <em>In Focus</em> video where you, along with Tim Burton, President, Burton &amp; Mayer, and [then] Chairman of the Board, Printing Industries of America; Michael Makin, President and CEO, Printing Industries of America, were able to reach a whole new audience. What effects have you witnessed from this strong advocacy both within and outside the industry? </strong></p>
<p>LR: We were honored to be a part of the public television feature. The effects of the <em>In Focus</em> video—as well has the Value of Print campaign as a whole—have been overwhelmingly positive. As soon as the video aired, immediately I started receiving emails and phone calls commending our efforts to educate audiences on the sustainability and effectiveness of print. The greatest benefit has been the wide exposure our industry received from this broadcast. I think the viewership has learned a valuable lesson from the video, and it helped to break down a lot of misleading perceptions about print.</p>
<p><strong><em>To watch the seven minute </em>In Focus: <em>feature, click </em></strong><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=plOVWQngmPw&amp;list=PLMr1cgicrCW-oiT3_ftBQmjeRMI0AfG4R&amp;feature=share&amp;index=1"><strong><em>here</em></strong></a><strong><em>. </em></strong></p>
<p><strong>3. For 2014 you added all </strong><a href="http://value.printing.org/page/9056"><strong>new data</strong></a><strong> to the Value of Print Web and mobile tools. What facts do you find most surprising? What does this new research mean to the industry?</strong></p>
<p>LR: We were excited to take advantage of our digital tools to enhance our message. With updated information on the website and app, we’ve added new features—the interactive <em>Print Market Atlas</em> is not new—you could do that before. We just updated the info. On the app, you’ll find the interactive <em>2012 Print Market Atlas</em>. On the webpage there’s new facts posted each month in 2014 (on <a href="http://www.printing.org/ValueofPrint">www.printing.org/ValueofPrint</a>). These updates have given our users all new information to communicate the facts about print.</p>
<p>One fact that’s particularly surprising to me was that the <a href="http://blog.printing.org/blog/11798">digital generation</a> is shown to favor print ads over other media, such as TV, radio, and Web. My teenage son seems to be connected to a phone or tablet constantly, so it was eye-opening to learn that print still has a significant effect on their age group. I think this information is incredibly valuable to industry members who need to demonstrate the effectiveness of print advertising on various target markets.</p>
<p>Also, the latest surveys are saying that consumers are getting wise to “greenwashing.” One source reports that 87% of consumers believe that money is the main reason companies ask them to switch to electronic-only communication, <em>not</em> to save the environment.</p>
<p>I think what we’re seeing from the newest statistics like these is that print <em>is</em> a vital part of the marketing mix. Even in the evolving communication environment, with the introduction of email, social media, and other digital technology, the printing industry has had to adjust to a lot of changes. But the truth is, consumers are more informed, and print has a significant influence on their decisions. As a result print buyers are learning that the all-digital approach is just not as effective. As we continue to innovate and embrace these new technologies, the printing industry will evolve and survive.</p>
<p>To learn more about the Value of Print, visit <a href="http://www.printing.org/valueofprint">www.printing.org/valueofprint</a>.</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11920#commentsGeneralMember ResourcesMon, 09 Jun 2014 17:56:28 +0000mflynn@printing.org11920 at http://blog.printing.orgA New, Virtual Way to Train—And Keep—New Employeeshttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11909
<p><img src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/blog/ilearningscreens.jpg" alt="" height="400" width="640" /></p>
<p>Stop trying to retain your employees!</p>
<p>That’s right. It’s no longer enough to <em>retain</em> your top employees. Today firms need to focus on creating <em>engaged, satisfied</em> employees. They are more productive and stay with the same company longer than a disengaged employee.</p>
<p>As of April 2013, the printing industry employed around 443,000 people—up by 1,000 workers, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That’s right, the industry is <em>growing</em>. Companies typically invest a lot of money in new employees, so it’s important that they stick around for a while.</p>
<p>According to a recent study, one of the main factors in <a href="http://blog.printing.org/blog/11741">job satisfaction</a> is beneficial employee training. According to the National Research Business Institute, 23% of employees leave their current job due to lack of development and training opportunities. But managers know that training can also be expensive, and time consuming. What’s the best way to satisfy the need for added training while eliminating most of the downside? &nbsp;Well, for more than 41% of Fortune 500 companies, the solution has become <a href="http://blog.printing.org/blog/11844"><strong>e-learning</strong></a>.</p>
<p><strong>Training New Hires</strong></p>
<p>If you want to develop loyal, long-term employees, start from the very beginning. Printing Industries of America’s new virtual workshop portal, the <a href="http://www.printing.org/ilearning">Integrated Learning Center</a>, offers a course developed specifically to educate employees new to the industry.</p>
<p>You may remember the <strong>Orientation to the Graphic Arts</strong> workshop. As one of the most popular instructor-led workshops, it’s now offered as a virtual course. With 24/7 access, this class provides comprehensive industry information for everyone from press professionals to sales developers.</p>
<p>Learn about:</p>
<ul>
<li>Print production workflow</li>
<li>Digital prepress</li>
<li>Offset and digital printing</li>
<li>Color theory and reproduction</li>
<li>Bindery</li>
<li>And much more</li>
</ul>
<p>Currently Orientation to the Graphic Arts is available to members through Printing Industries of America affiliates as part of a subscription package granting access to all courses in the Integrated Learning Center. You can take advantage of this limited-time offer of 25% off the subscription package until June 6, 2014. Get started today. Visit <a href="http://www.printing.org/ilearning">www.printing.org/ilearning</a>.</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11909#commentsGeneralMember ResourcesThu, 29 May 2014 17:50:57 +0000mflynn@printing.org11909 at http://blog.printing.orgWhy Variable-Data Printing Is a “Must-Have” Technology http://blog.printing.org/blog/11890
<p><img src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/pubs/PUBSBLOGIMAGE.png" alt="" height="843" width="640" /></p>
<p><em>The following blog post was contributed by Kathryn Wyckoff, Marketing Coordinator at DME, Rob Carll, Director of Sales and Marketing at DME.</em></p>
<p>Sales organizations are always looking for new and innovative ways to sell to current and potential customers. Marketing, of course, is a huge part of the selling process. But yesterday’s one-size-fit-all communication plan no longer resonates with Boomers or Generation X, Y, or Z. Savvy marketers are continually realizing the increasing ROI benefits of individualized and personalized communications. The marketplace is showing that sixty-three-year-old Fred is interested in different product benefits than forty-five-year-old Sharon, and twenty-two-year-old Chloe comes from a different world completely.&nbsp; This evolution toward targeted, one-to-one messaging has the printing industry scrambling to catch up.</p>
<p>Think about it … we now live in a world that allows us to have it our way in almost every aspect of our lives. The courtship between a business and an individual is no different. In fact, studies show that people expect advertisements to be targeted to them or they are likely looking elsewhere. In fact, 74% of consumers get frustrated when content appears to have nothing to do with their interests (Source: Janrain &amp; Harris Interactive). You may know this in theory or from personal preference. So how does one put targeted messaging into practice?</p>
<p>This is where variable-data printing comes into play. Traditional offset printers have always been able to add a personalized address label onto a static mail piece. Black laser overprint allows us to add a little more personalization. But how do you then take personalization to the next level? After all, that’s what marketers, and ultimately the buying public, are asking for. The solution is to personalize customer engagement with unique variable data.</p>
<p>As you know, the high-level overview of variable-data printing is that a printer uses technology to drive the printing process. Using VDP software, a printed piece can now contain variable information in the form of different content and graphics. This eliminates the need for massive runs and makes it more economical to print truly individualized pieces. Likewise, VDP software can extend into automating the workflow and billing processes, thus eliminating the cost associated with these processes. These points alone are reason enough for a printer to invest in this technology, but what is a way to position it to a fulfillment customer?</p>
<p>One way VDP technology can be utilized to its fullest potential is to have website visitors fill out a form for more information regarding the product or service. Within this form, the company not only finds out personal identifiers (name, address, etc.) but also requests a little more information on the visitor. The more you ask the more you stand to learn—within limits of course.</p>
<p>Everything we now know about a customer now becomes an important data point to consider.&nbsp; Fred, 63, likes BBQ, baseball, and RV trips around the U.S.&nbsp; Sharon, 45, likes Italian food, baking, exercise, decorating, and wants to travel to Italy.&nbsp; Chloe, 22, likes Thai food, swimming, the beach, cats, and also wants to travel to Italy. We can then group like-minded individuals into segments. Each segment can have the message, offer, and visuals designed that will appeal to each group.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Take an instance of a city tourism visitor’s bureau. Useful information might be: What are the viewer’s interests? When are they traveling? Are they traveling alone or with friends or family? Gathering this information starts to form a complete profile of a single visitor. Because the database is set up with “rules” depending on what information is entered, this data triggers unique content within the printed material. The variable information on the printed piece can include content or graphics as well as layout options.</p>
<p>In the example of the visitor bureau, let’s assume the website viewer is requesting an information packet to be sent to them. Instead of the bureau printing static brochures, letters, and other materials to stuff into the package, variable printing allows the visitor’s bureau to send each potential visitor an individualized package that speaks to their specific desires. While a standard letter thanking the visitor for their request can already be created digitally, it can also include the ability to plug in a variety of variables such as name, interest, and travel dates. Doing this creates a more meaningful touch as well as eliminates the need for storage of preprinted materials. Likewise, a brochure can exist electronically with hundreds of different elements and can be instantly and automatically configured based on the options checked in the form as well as the time of travel.</p>
<p>Once this information is collected it is permanently stored within the database and accessible to the bureau. The data can also be used to trigger different direct marketing campaigns including mail, emails, and pURLs to remind the recipient of great vacation options in that area.</p>
<p>The example of the visitor’s bureau can be applied to most businesses within a variety of industries. The reality is that variable-data printing sells itself, solely by the increased ROI. According to PODi and DMA data, the response rate of non-personalized mail pieces is 2%, and a personalized piece has a response rate of 6%—that’s a 300% increase. Knowing this and having the ability to add true value to a customer through variable print technology practices gives a printer an upper hand in the marketplace.</p>
<p><strong>About DME</strong></p>
<p>DME, an industry pioneer in relationship marketing, Web-to-print technology, and print fulfillment successfully builds relationships with clients through relevant communications for over thirty years. Engaging customers in a variety of industries, DME develops innovative and successful programs employing complex variable data to produce end-to-end campaigns. DME’s strategic process, from concept to design, fulfillment, and analytics is managed completely in-house at its 11-acre Daytona Beach, FL campus. For further information, please email <a href="mailto:rob.carll@dmedelivers.com">rob.carll@dmedelivers.com</a> or visit http://www.DMEdelivers.com.</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11890#commentsGeneralPublicationsWed, 21 May 2014 13:44:05 +0000mflynn@printing.org11890 at http://blog.printing.orgWhat Customers REALLY Want: How One Professor Uncovered 51 Proven MSP Sales Objectiveshttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11870
<p><img src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/blog/Leiningerblogimage.jpg" alt="" height="358" width="640" /></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Have you ever received a marketing message so on target it was almost like they were speaking directly to you? In an age where targeted marketing has become the norm, customers expect companies to understand what they need and help them move forward. If yours is one of the many businesses struggling to grow sales as a commodity printer, John Leininger has a piece of advice on how to get your foot in the door—51 pieces to be exact.</p>
<p>A Professor of Graphic Communications at Clemson University for 28 years, John regularly presents at industry events around the country. After talking to many print and graphic arts professionals and getting to know more about their sales strategies, he was surprised by what he found. A number of these business leaders had little understanding about the important dynamics of their vertical markets.</p>
<p>What did he do? He developed a hugely successful course at Clemson University that focused on sales prospecting. One of the assignments he had the student work through was to analyze 180 integrated marketing case studies. With the help of his students, he composed a list of <strong><em>51 proven prospective sales objectives</em></strong> that you will be able to hear at the <a href="http://www.printing.org/printleadershipsummit">2014 Print Leadership Summit</a>.</p>
<p>But first, here’s how he did it.</p>
<p><strong>Learning the ways of a Successful MSP</strong></p>
<p>John created a new course that taught his Clemson University students prospective sales strategies to sell targeted integrated marketing services in the graphic communications industry. With intense focus on using online tools to research potential customers, this class showed them how to understand a client and uncover new vertical markets to pursue.</p>
<p>In other words he was preparing them to become successful MSPs.</p>
<p><strong>Uncovering the Answers</strong></p>
<p>His students read through a total of 180 PODI Case Studies. After analyzing each case, breaking down their main campaign objectives, and recording the overlaps, they came out with a list of 51 objectives.</p>
<p>This list is pure ammo for print sales reps who research their customers and can now pinpoint the objectives to target their specific needs. It provides the ice breakers to open new doors and reach niche vertical markets.</p>
<p>Some of these objectives your sales professionals can use include:</p>
<p>1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Maintain and develop a brand image, both on a national and local level (different concerns for versioning and personalization at these two levels).</p>
<p>2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Provide a completely automated system to create a print campaign online and automate the postal prep and mailing.</p>
<p>3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Reduce the costs (by reducing time, effort, storage and waste) and improve turnaround time involved in producing and distributing marketing collateral and support documentation (through the use of a Web-to print portal or managed fulfillment services).</p>
<p>&nbsp;4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Create an automated lead generation program to build and manage prospecting.</p>
<p>&nbsp;5.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; One element of the campaign was designed to drive people to the Web to create an interactive customer experience.</p>
<p><strong>Applying these Objectives</strong></p>
<p>Once you’ve researched and identified your customer’s needs, what do you do next? There are a number of ways you can make your sales pitch to a company, but John recommends that the first communication be a personal phone call followed by an email or even (gasp!) a hand-written letter. That’s right, folks. Sales professionals everywhere are saying that the letter is making a comeback, which is certainly music to printers’ ears.</p>
<p>If you want to learn more, John is presenting a session at the 2014 Print Leadership Summit, “<a href="http://pls14.printing.org/p/speakers/john-leininger/">Get Your Foot in the Door: Strategies to Target Your Top Verticals.</a>” Registration is open for this event, happening June 2–3 in Dallas, at <a href="http://www.printing.org/PrintLeadershipSummit">www.printing.org/PrintLeadershipSummit</a>.</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11870#commentsGeneralConferencesTue, 13 May 2014 13:43:40 +0000mflynn@printing.org11870 at http://blog.printing.orgBranding Your Brand for New Web Services http://blog.printing.org/blog/11868
<p><img src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/blog/weaverblog.jpg" alt="" height="480" width="640" /></p>
<p><em>This blog was adapted from “Position Web Design Service in Your Print Shop” by Brent Weaver, CEO, uGurus. You can read the full article in the April, 2014 issues of </em><a href="http://www.printing.org/efiles/eweb/docs/pubs/201312MemberSpotlight.pdf">Printing Industries of America: The Magazine</a><em>. Brent is a featured speaker at the </em><a href="http://www.printing.org/printleadershipsummit"><em>2014 Print Leadership Summit</em></a><em>, June 2–3, in Dallas. </em></p>
<p>Did you know that between 2008 and 2013, global print revenue shrunk by 5.2%?&nbsp; &nbsp;The rapid growth of digital is giving printers many more options. If contracting print margins are hurting your profits, it’s time to take action.</p>
<p>If you’ve considered diversifying your business by adding digital services to your existing portfolio, you could be on the track to recurring revenue and greater profits. Some of the digital services you may want to offer initially for your clients are:</p>
<ul>
<li>Web development for company websites and e-commerce sites</li>
<li>Supporting services like SEO and social media</li>
<li>Marketing automation, including managed email marketing</li>
</ul>
<p>But, unfortunately, you can’t <em>just add</em> this new service and expect your customers to beat down your door for them. To avoid confusing customers when integrating digital, one of the important things to considerer first is your brand: <strong>How are you going to position these services externally to your customer base? </strong></p>
<p>That’s where we looked to the expertise of Web design pro Brent Weaver. The CEO of uGurus, Brent helps Web professionals build their business and consults with Web entrepreneurs. You’ll have the opportunity to meet him at the <a href="http://www.printing.org/printleadershipsummit">2014 Print Leadership Summit</a> when he presents “<a href="http://pls14.printing.org/p/speakers/brent-weaver/">Selling the Online Business Ecosystem.</a>” But for now, here are two smart branding options and his tips for how to position Web services without deterring or confusing your customers.</p>
<p><strong>Option 1: Add to your existing offerings</strong><br /> Bundle print and Web services and advertise new services under your existing brand.</p>
<p>Why this is a good option:</p>
<ul>
<li>A quick way to advertise without a large investment.</li>
<li>Since your existing customers are already familiar with your brand, it’s an easy way to educate them about new services.</li>
<li>Bundling services and advertising, “we do Web too!” is relatively simple for any size business to implement.</li>
</ul>
<p>What to watch out for:</p>
<ul>
<li>Existing customers may be confused by the change</li>
<li>With a marketing message already focused on print, Web services may not sync with this message</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Option 2: Create a separate brand and offer<br /> </strong>Before you completely commit to a new offering, create a new, digitally focused brand even though <em>internally</em> you still do all the work.</p>
<p>Why this is a good option</p>
<ul>
<li>New digital offering is separated from your brand’s primary offering</li>
<li>Acts as a test for your new service before you fully commit</li>
<li>Your existing internal team can manage the new brand</li>
</ul>
<p>What to watch out for</p>
<ul>
<li>Developing a new brand takes time, and you may not see the desired results immediately</li>
<li>You risk diluting your brand and losing your identity</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>So what do you do now?</strong></p>
<p>It’s time to educate yourself. You’ve seen the advantages and disadvantages of either selling Web services within your brand or through a siloed offshoot. Now you have an important decision to make.</p>
<p>If you’re just starting out, you should know that offering digital services is significantly different than offering print services—you become more of a consultant than just an order taker.</p>
<p><strong><em>Start</em></strong> with your print customers. Look at their online presence, and determine what Web services you can provide to find them a total solution.</p>
<p><strong><em>For example,</em></strong> a customer comes to you for a printed promotional flyer. They want to attract additional business. This is an opportunity for you to offer added services. Find out, “Do they have a company website or e-commerce platform?” or “Do they use email marketing to communicate with their customers?” You can help them by developing more holistic solutions and a campaign to grow their business.</p>
<p>Fortunately there are a number of resources available to you, including:</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://ipc.printing.org/news/11832">Free Web Dev Tools</a>—The Integrated Print Center has combed the Web for the best resources to get you started in Web development.</li>
<li><a href="http://ipc.printing.org/page/11148">Mobile-optimized Websites: A Primer for Printers</a> (white paper)—Learn to build mobile-optimized websites as part of an integrated print solution. <em>(Member login required)</em></li>
<li><a href="http://www.printing.org/ugurus">uGurus</a>—<strong><em>Coming Soon!</em></strong> Online courses from the experts at uGurus help you learn how to grow your business with digital services: find more clients, close bigger deals, manage projects and clients, and find and hire talent.</li>
</ul>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11868#commentsGeneralConferencesMon, 12 May 2014 14:08:48 +0000mflynn@printing.org11868 at http://blog.printing.orgHow you can Take the Reins on Your Financial Ratioshttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11864
<p><img src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/blog/573_3237887%281%29.JPG" alt="" /></p>
<p>When you boil it down, a financial ratio is a simple mathematical formula that compares two or more sets of numbers. However, as our market still struggles to find solid ground post-Recession, this formula is critical to maintain control of your firm’s operations.</p>
<p><strong><em>Financial benchmarking</em></strong> is the number-one way to take the reins and control operational costs.</p>
<p>Few people understand financial ratios—and how printers can apply them—better than Stuart Margolis, CPA, MT, of Margolis Partners, LLC. If you’ve participated in the <strong><em>Ratios</em></strong><strong><em>,</em></strong> you probably recognize his name. He’s a long-time partner of Printing Industries of America who helps industry members increase profits with <em>Ratios</em> financial benchmarking<em>. </em></p>
<p>Why is financial benchmarking so vital to success? If you’re a business owner or manager, you know you need to keep your costs in line with sales. The <a href="http://www.printing.org/ratios"><em>Ratios</em></a> let you <strong>1)</strong> track operation costs, <strong>2)</strong> compare them to those of industry profit leaders, and <strong>3)</strong> pinpoint areas for improvement.</p>
<p>As an active consultant for Printing Industries of America, Stu has seen the good, the bad, and the ugly when it comes to how some companies control their operations. We sat down with Stu to find out how top firms are taking back control of their operations and developing a strategic plan for the future using <a href="http://www.printing.org/ratios"><em>Ratios</em></a>.</p>
<p style="padding-left: 60px;"><strong>Through Margolis Partners you’ve published many guidelines for effective management strategies using Printing Industries of America <em>Ratios</em>. What are the top three best practices you’ve seen your clients implement to benchmark their company against industry profit leaders?</strong></p>
<p style="padding-left: 60px;"><strong>SM:</strong> Well my number one best practice <em>IS</em> always to benchmark your company, so if you do that, you’re already ahead of the game! But the top three best strategies I urge all my clients to employ are:</p>
<p style="padding-left: 60px;">1) Structure your financial information in the <strong><em>standard format</em></strong> for the printing industry. Although it may seem obvious to some, it’s an important, often overlooked step that allows you to organize your statements and make direct comparisons to other financial reports. Since the <em>Ratios</em> survey is formatted to this structure, participants can do this easily allowing a side-by-side comparison of your numbers to those of industry profit leaders.</p>
<p style="padding-left: 60px;">2) Set up a <strong><em>“Profit Plan”</em></strong> for the next year that describes how you will operate in the future. With consistent benchmarking, you can begin to compare your current performance to previous years. This strategy reveals specific areas for improvement and challenges you to perform as a profit leader.</p>
<p style="padding-left: 60px;">3) Benchmark, plan, repeat. Although that’s a rather simplified statement, essentially the companies that continuously repeat this process of benchmarking and then setting up the following year’s Profit Plan are the ones that I see succeed most often. These are the firms that <strong><em>build and maintain their competitive edge.</em></strong></p>
<p style="padding-left: 60px;"><strong>What do you feel are the most significant benefits of a Custom Financial Analysis (CFA)?</strong></p>
<p style="padding-left: 60px;"><strong>SM:</strong> Since the CFA really goes beyond comparing your financials against industry profit leaders—letting you see your actual financials next to the profit leaders and the average performers—you get a much <strong><em>clearer understanding of where your company stands</em></strong> against competitors. And you can perform a more in-depth cost analysis. After filling out the <em>Ratios</em> survey, we can customize this confidential report based on the data you select—compare by size of firm, products produced, etc.&nbsp; This would all take a long time for most companies to do themselves, but we can calculate the CFA for you automatically because you filled out the <em>Ratios </em>and gave us your numbers in that standardized format. My clients can then take that data and apply it immediately.</p>
<p style="padding-left: 60px;"><strong>What key performance indicators (KPIs) do you recommend your clients track?</strong></p>
<p style="padding-left: 60px;"><strong>SM:</strong> One of the top recommendations I make is to measure your <strong><em>factory labor as a percent of value added</em></strong>. This is because factory labor makes up a large portion of your costs. Plus, it’s also a variable cost and can be difficult to control. The principle matter is that you want to <strong><em>get the most out of your factory labor dollars. <br /> </em></strong></p>
<p style="padding-left: 60px;">Another important KPI is the <strong><em>debt to equity ratio.</em></strong> Even six years after the Recession, this is still an important ratio because not all printing companies have completely recovered. With this ratio you’re comparing the total amount of debt or liabilities to the amount of equity in your company. The debt-to-equity ratio is also a key indication of the amount of leverage your firm has, and <strong><em>less leverage equals greater stability.</em></strong></p>
<p style="padding-left: 60px;"><strong>Can you share an example of how a client has used the <em>Ratios</em> and a CFA to improve their financial position?</strong></p>
<p style="padding-left: 60px;"><strong>SM:</strong> I want to share two different client experiences to demonstrate how important it is to retain control over your ratios. My first client is from a small, family-owned business. They have a slow to moderate growth rate. We started applying annual benchmarking with the CFA, and, although they’re not growing quickly, year after year they’ve been profit leaders. Why? Because we continuously use <em>Ratios</em> to make sure that their <strong><em>costs are in line with sales.</em></strong> This allows them to know if they need to right-size their company to meet current sales levels.</p>
<p style="padding-left: 60px;">On the other hand, another client’s company was experiencing rapid growth. As a result, business decisions were being made on the fly. As they struggled to keep up, they did not consistently apply benchmarking and eventually started losing control of their costs. As fast as they had grown, they fell out of line, and their business suffered. To get them back in control of their company, we applied benchmarking as proof to all future decisions.</p>
<p>Many companies will relate to either one of these examples, but the point is that <strong><em>growth without control of costs can lead to disaster. </em></strong>We all aim for revenue growth, but without consistently using ratios and CFA to control costs, it’s easy to fall out of line—and we want to help our clients avoid that problem.</p>
<p>Have a <em>Ratios</em> question? Contact Stuart Margolis at <a href="mailto:smargolis@MargolisPartners.com">smargolis@MargolisPartners.com</a>.</p>
<p>Participate in the 2014–15 <em>Ratios</em> Survey by visiting <a href="http://www.printing.org/Ratios">www.printing.org/Ratios</a>*. The deadline has just been extended to <strong>May 20, 2014! </strong></p>
<p>*Ratios <em>survey participants receive a free copy of the full published </em>Ratios<em> Report as a Printing Industries of America member and are eligible for a substantial discount on a Custom Financial Analysis (CFA). For questions contact Ed Gleeson at </em><a href="mailto:egleeson@printing.org"><em>egleeson@printing.org</em></a><em>. </em></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11864#commentsGeneralEconomicsWed, 07 May 2014 14:23:37 +0000mflynn@printing.org11864 at http://blog.printing.orgPrepare for New Changes in Employee Training http://blog.printing.org/blog/11844
<p>&nbsp; <br /><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/IPC/Images/ILearningCenterLearning_FINAL.jpg" alt="" height="115" width="507" /></p>
<p>No one ever said change was easy. But that’s never stopped you in the past, has it? Those of us in the printing industry have always had to learn new technologies, incorporate new equipment, and provide new services to our clients. Change and learning are part of our DNA!<br /><br />Another industry experiencing major change is education, where there is a significant growth trend in online learning. You may have heard about more and more college students taking virtual classes, while some are even earning their degrees entirely online—amazing! This trend is also very evident in employee education.<br /><br />Today, eLearning is a $56.2 billion business and is expected to grow to over $100 billion by 2015. In fact 40% of Fortune 500 companies are turning away from traditional instruction-based learning and investing in online learning (<em>ELearning Magazine,</em> 2013). But it’s not just the huge corporations that are benefitting from virtual education. Printing Industries of America is set to launch a variety of Web-based, industry-focused workshops via a brand new online platform, the <a href="http://www.printing.org/ilearning">Integrated Learning Center</a>.<br /><br />Whether you call all it eLearning, Web-based training, or virtual education, the Integrated Learning Center platform is developed to provide a <em>one-stop-shopping solution to your training needs</em>.<br /><br />This platform raises an exciting opportunity for progressive print and graphic arts companies that view online learning as a competitive weapon, rather than merely an added cost. High-quality employee performance, a key to business success, relies significantly on high-quality training.<br /><br />Online learning, as evidenced in the statistics below, can prove to be more efficient and effective than traditional learning methods and results in greater productivity and competitive gains.<br /><br />Need more convincing that virtual training is right for educating your staff? We’ve highlighted <em>five of the most valuable benefits for our industry members</em> as they apply to both managers and employees.<strong><br /><br />1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Quality education on demand<br /><br />Managers:</strong> One of the biggest differentiators between online and instructor-based learning is that you can access it virtually <em>any time, anywhere</em>. Since most eLearning programs allow unlimited access, managers have greater flexibility in scheduling training time for employees.<strong><br /><br />Employees:</strong> Education is a valuable career asset. eLearning is proven to increase knowledge retention by <em>25% to 60%</em> over traditional learning methods. <em>(Corporate eLearning Exploring a New Frontier, WR Hambrecht)</em> And since eLearning is self-paced, employees can learn at rates appropriate to their individual knowledge level.</p>
<p><strong>2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Less time and expense compared to off-site learning<br /><br />Managers:</strong> Time and money—two resources most managers wouldn’t mind saving. Recent research shows businesses <em>save at least 50%</em> by replacing traditional instructor-based training with eLearning. Additionally eLearning cuts instruction time by up to 60%.<strong><br /><br />Employees:</strong> Those who have online training are more valuable employees. According to a new report by IBM, companies that use eLearning tools and strategies have the potential to <em>boost productivity by 50%.</em> Plus companies that offer eLearning generate about <em>26% more revenue per employee</em>.</p>
<p><strong>3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Greater ability to adapt to industry changes compared to competitors<br /><br />Managers:</strong> Looking to boost your competitive edge? Seventy-two percent of companies stated that eLearning helps them <em>keep up to date with changes in their industry,</em> which helps them to remain competitive within their niche. <em>(CertifyMe.net)</em> In fact, firms that offer Web-based learning are <em>46% more likely to be the leader in their industry.</em> (Bersin &amp; Associates)<strong><br /><br />Employees:</strong> Looking to advance your career? By staying up to date on advancing technologies through online learning, employees have more opportunities for promotions and pay increases.</p>
<p><strong>4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Improved employee retention rates and overall company culture<br /><br />Managers:</strong> Educational opportunities are an important benefit to many employees. Did you know 23% of employees leave their job because the position lacks opportunity for development and training? (National Research Business Institute) Companies that offer online training have <em>more satisfied employees</em> and can leverage it as a <em>recruiting tool.</em><strong><br /><br />Employees:</strong> Today employees want to work for a company with a <em>great culture</em> and one that shows its staff they are valued. Research shows companies that have a strong learning culture do better in their market than those that do not.</p>
<p><strong>5.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Focused training for everyone on staff<br /><br />Managers:</strong> The Integrated Learning Center hosts a wide range of workshops from beginner to advanced levels. When developing their eLearning strategy, managers are able to select which content is most effective for each job function. eLearning delivers a higher ROI when it’s build around a solid strategy. To give you a big-picture perspective: <em>for every $1 a company invests in training, they can receive $30 worth of productivity gains.</em><strong><br /><br />Employees:</strong> With education relevant to their job function, employees can <em>apply the new skills to their jobs immediately</em>, making them more effective and more valuable staff members.<br /><br /></p>
<p><strong>How can you access online training developed specifically for the print industry?</strong></p>
<p>Launching April 30, 2014, <a href="http://www.printing.org/ilearning">The Integrated Learning Center</a>—a new online training portal from the Integrated Print Center—is a cutting-edge program developed to serve your evolving needs. It provides employees the opportunity to learn the latest technologies and offers managers the flexibility and savings of quality, on-demand education.</p>
<p>Experience expert-developed workshops on topics that matter most to graphic communication businesses:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Environmental and safety courses—</strong>Comply with OSHA and industry standards and ensure safe workplaces with our kick-off to the “train the trainer” series. Learn about the latest hazardous material communications.</li>
<li><strong>Orientation courses—</strong>Printing Industries’ popular “Orientation to the Graphic Arts” workshop is moving to the Integrated Learning Center. Get a complete introduction to the industry for new hires.</li>
<li><strong>Technical courses</strong> on color management and industry standards, integrated marketing management, personalization, and direct marketing are just a few of the full complement of industry-specific topics that will roll out throughout the year.</li>
</ul>
<p>New courses will be added throughout the year. Learn more about the Integrated Learning Center by visiting <a href="http://www.printing.org/ilearning">www.printing.org/ilearning</a>.</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11844#commentsGeneralMember ResourcesThu, 17 Apr 2014 20:16:00 +0000mflynn@printing.org11844 at http://blog.printing.orgBack to Reality: A look at real, successful augmented reality applicationshttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11836
<p><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/blog/1010_4479800.jpg" alt="" height="378" width="503" /></p>
<p><em>This blog has been adapted from an article by Steve Deitz, President/Creative Director, 900lbs of Creative, and keynote speaker at the </em><a href="http://www.printing.org/printleadershipsummit"><em>2014 Print Leadership Summit</em></a><em>, June 2–3,Dallas, TX.</em></p>
<p>Remember when companies first began talking about applying augmented reality to printed materials? What seemed like science fiction is becoming, well, reality, and providing some uniquely creative, engaging marketing pieces for companies.</p>
<p>If you’re not familiar, augmented reality adds new layers to the traditional print campaign. Using their mobile device, a reader scans a flat, 2D marker. The result is 3D virtual content that appears, simultaneously, layered on top of the 2D marker and the physical world. It also adds an additional layer of interactivity and creates a visual, tangible storytelling experience.</p>
<p>Basically, it blends the user’s physical world and digital content into a single, multidimensional image.</p>
<p>But does augmented reality really work in the real world? Well, try feeling the sensation of driving over rugged terrain or the experience of redesigning your homes—all through print!</p>
<p>Here are a few campaigns that showcase how companies are successfully marrying this technology with traditional print campaigns.</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Drive a Land Rover <br /> </strong><br /> How would you like to experience the adventure of driving a Land Rover vehicle? The car company designed a fold-out cover for the November 2013 issue of <em>Esquire</em> magazine that engaged readers with a white-knuckled virtual ride over rocky terrain. The cutting-edge spread featured three augmented reality-enabled pages that delivered a multi-sensory experience, including audio and vibration. Plus first-person perspective images gave readers the feeling they were in the driver’s seat. This campaign reached <a href="https://blippar.com/en/">Blippar’s</a> “Top 5 Most Liked/Shared” augmented reality experiences in history.</li>
<li><strong>Try Before You Buy with IKEA</strong><br /> <br /> No one enjoys buying a piece of furniture only to find it doesn’t fit in your house or go with your décor. IKEA created a solution. Using the IKEA app and their catalog as the marker, the company was able to let their customers “test drive” IKEA products in their homes before making a purchase. The results were thousands of customer-shared pictures posted on social media sites, and the campaign’s positive effects are still being felt today.</li>
<li><strong>Imagine Your Lego Creation</strong><br /> <br /> One of the first companies to put augmented reality into action, Lego created a package in 2009 that, when held up to a kiosk in their store, would display a 3D finished version of that product. The marker is the printed imagery on the front of the box. Today, kids and parents can get the same experience at home when they hold their mobile device in front of the Lego catalog and engage their imagination when they see what they can create. This feature has proven to be an effective sales tool for the company. </li>
</ul>
<p>Looking toward the future, augmented reality is a reality for many companies, with uses from engagement marketing to displaying information about your surroundings, like Google Goggles (app available for <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.google.android.apps.unveil">Android</a> and <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/google-mobile-app/id284815942?mt=8">Apple</a>) to staying connected with devices like smart glasses.</p>
<p>Whatever the medium, augmented reality applications will continue to expand. As printers this is an important trend to keep up on and discover ways you can use it to your advantage.</p>
<p><em>Learn more about Steve Deitz’s session, </em><a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/google-mobile-app/id284815942?mt=8"><em>The New World of Experiential Marketing</em></a><em>, at the </em><a href="http://pls14.printing.org/p/"><em>2014 Print Leadership Summit</em></a><em>, happening June 2–3, in Dallas, TX.</em></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11836#commentsGeneralConferencesTue, 15 Apr 2014 19:52:46 +0000mflynn@printing.org11836 at http://blog.printing.orgBuilding the Future: Four Top Technology Trends to Get You Therehttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11831
<p><em>This blog is adapted from the article “The Future of the Print Industry” by Joseph Puopolo, CEO, Printchomp, and featured speaker at the 2014 Print Leadership Summit, June 2–3, Dallas, TX.</em></p>
<p>What’s one word to sum up the future of print? Adaptation.</p>
<p>Yes, what seems to be the law of nature also holds true for the print industry, along with many others. Those who adapt and effectively use new technologies will survive, while those who don’t … well, let’s say that it pays to listen to experts. But deciding which technology to invest in can be a major challenge for many print companies.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Here, one expert, Joseph Puopolo, CEO and Founder of Printchomp, a 15-year leader in the tech industry, offers insights into trending technologies and how printers can use them to their advantage.</p>
<p>When Puopolo set out to find the most effective solutions for both printers and customers, he came to a realization. He noticed that, among the thousands of printers he’s worked with, <strong><em>four major trends</em></strong> stand out that are critical to future success. The future belongs to those who adapt to these changes in technology.</p>
<p><strong>Trend #1: Automation</strong></p>
<p>If you want to significantly reduce inefficiencies in your print shop, workflow automation is a must. This is a growing trend in both work and order flow. Automation has shown to be the most effective way to increase turnaround time and lower waste. Sales are rising too, thanks to the latest automated systems. While traditional sales methods still hold their importance, printers are building more intuitive <strong><em>automated lead-generation engines</em></strong> to help fill the new customer deficit.</p>
<p><em>Learn more about automation as Poupolo presents “</em><a href="http://pls14.printing.org/p/speakers/joseph-puopolo/"><em>Automating the Flow of Data In and Out of Your Organization</em></a><em>” at Printing Industries of America’s innovative </em><a href="http://pls14.printing.org/p/"><em>2014 Print Leadership Summit</em></a><em>, June 2–3, Dallas, TX. </em></p>
<p><strong>Trend #2: Specialization</strong></p>
<p>A customer goes to a customized printer and gets a price quote. Then that customer takes the same job to a generalized printer and gets an entirely different quote! If your print shop has ever had to deal with a situation like this, you know why product specialization is growing. It allows for efficient product delivery at a reasonable price to the target customer. Specialized printers’ margins are often better than the generalized Jack-of-all-trades printers who may offer a wide range of products, but are often forced to rely more heavily on trade printers for most of their fulfillment.</p>
<p><strong>Trend #3: Integration</strong></p>
<p>In an on-demand world, customers don’t want to use multiple systems or go through multiple people to get what they need. Go through any fast food drive-through, and it’s clear—people just expect things to happen. Printers need to integrate their clients with their operation to be successful in the future. One way to do this is to eliminate manual processes. Allow clients to order from their own internal systems and send data directly to you. Provide a vertically integrated system with the flexibility to source from multiple geographic locations.</p>
<p><strong>Trend #4: Contextualization</strong></p>
<p>As input mechanisms change, the context in which customers are ordering print is shifting considerably. Now with new technology, like Web apps, ordering patterns are different, and mid-level managers are adopting a Web-first approach to sourcing. Geography, turnaround times, and product needs are affecting customers’ context, and buyers—even those with established relationships—are looking to the competition if one of those elements is out of sync.</p>
<p><strong><em>Want a successful future? We can help you get there. </em></strong></p>
<p>To maintain your competitive advantage, your company needs more effective strategies in leadership, sales, and technology. These key foundations are the focus of the <a href="http://pls14.printing.org/p/"><strong>2014 Print Leadership Summit</strong></a><strong>, June 2–3, in Dallas, TX.</strong>Register today to hear dozens of speakers, including Joseph Poupolo, engage you in these critical business trends and help you prepare your company for the future.</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11831#commentsGeneralConferencesMon, 14 Apr 2014 19:46:28 +0000ckapanyko@printing.org11831 at http://blog.printing.orgWhat You Need to Know About I-9 Employment Verification: How to Get Your Firm Ready for ICEhttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11816
<p><img src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/HR/BWABlogimage.jpg" alt="" height="480" width="640" /></p>
<p>Today, many companies employ more diverse workforces. Do you have the up-to-date Form I-9 to prove that every employee in your firm is identified and verified to work in the U.S.?</p>
<p>If not, your company could face serious fines. HR professionals and business owners may know that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has recently stepped up employer audits, and two printing firms have already been targeted this year. Luckily, the firms received advance notice from ICE about the audit and contacted Printing Industries’ Human Relations Department for help.&nbsp; &nbsp;</p>
<p>Every day many companies are receiving an audit notification, or Notice of Inspection (NOI), from the ICE. When you receive this notice, you have <em>only three days</em> to produce the Forms I-9.</p>
<p>If you are unsure if your firm is prepared for ICE, read on!</p>
<p><strong>Avoiding Problems with ICE</strong></p>
<p>Unlike the kind brought on by freezing temperature, this type of ICE can be avoided easily by following a few easy steps to prepare. If you are an HR professional or business owner, taking the right precautions can make a big difference in whether you pass or fail a Form I-9 audit.</p>
<ul>
<li>Review the <a href="http://www.ice.gov/news/library/factsheets/i9-inspection.htm">Fact Sheet: Form I-9 Inspection Overview</a> to learn more about the audit process.</li>
<li>If audited, you may be asked to provide supporting documentation, which may include a copy of the payroll, list of current employees, Articles of Incorporation, and business licenses.</li>
<li>Have new hires? <a href="http://www.uscis.gov/videos/video-form-i-9-employment-eligibility-verification-section-one">This video</a> will help you ease the process and explain to your new employee why the Form I-9 is necessary and how to complete it.</li>
<li>This <a href="http://www.uscis.gov/sites/default/files/USCIS/Verification/I-9%20Central/Form_I-9_Employee_Information_Sheet.pdf">Employee Information Sheet</a> is also a useful tool to highlight the I-9 process for new hires (there’s a <a href="http://www.uscis.gov/sites/default/files/USCIS/Verification/I-9%20Central/Form_I-9_Emoloyee_Info_Sheet-Spanish.pdf">Spanish</a> version available as well).</li>
<li>You, as the employer, are responsible for completing sections two and three of the Form I-9. Find a video explaining the details of Section Two <a href="http://www.uscis.gov/videos/video-form-i-9-employment-eligibility-verification-section-two">here</a> and Section Three <a href="http://www.uscis.gov/videos/video-form-i-9-employment-eligibility-verification-section-three">here</a>.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Penalties You could Face</strong></p>
<p>These <a href="http://www.printing.org/page/2554">HR resources</a> can help streamline the process for ensuring that you are in compliance with Form I-9. However, in the case that you do not meet all of the inspection criteria, these are the penalties you should be aware of:</p>
<ul>
<li>If corrections for a technical or procedural violation are not rectified within 10 business days, you could receive a fine for all uncorrected violations.</li>
<li>When an unauthorized worker is knowingly hired or continually employed, ICE will require their employer to cease all unlawful activity, institute a fine, and may criminally prosecute the company. The firm may also be debarred and ineligible for some government benefits.</li>
<li>The fees for knowingly hiring or employing unauthorized workers ranges anywhere from $375 up to $16,000.</li>
<li>If your company fails to produce a Form I-9 or violates other requirements, your company can be charged from $110 to $1,100 per violation.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>More Resources</strong></p>
<p>Many of the HR-related questions we receive from our members deal with training, orientation, performance appraisals, and more employee matters. Check out the <a href="http://www.printing.org/page/3906">Employment </a>page for forms, guidelines, posters, and other tools for employee relations.</p>
<p>Your company works hard to create an enriching environment for your employees—diversity in the workplace and a strong company culture that differentiates your firm and inspires success. Printing Industries of America wants to recognize you. Enter the <a href="http://www.printing.org/bwa"><strong>2014 Best Workplace in the Americas Program</strong></a><strong>.</strong> We spotlight great HR practices so winners receive improved hiring and retaining benefits.</p>
<p>Enter at <a href="http://www.printing.org/BWA"><strong>www.printing.org/BWA</strong></a> by September 30, 2014.</p>
<p><em>Do you have any more tips for firms facing a Form I-9 audit? Share them here!</em></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11816#commentsGeneralHuman RelationsFri, 04 Apr 2014 13:37:29 +0000mflynn@printing.org11816 at http://blog.printing.orgThe Future Is Looking Up: Highlighting Students in Printhttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11811
<p>We hear plenty of grim predictions about the future of print. But if you look at what the industry’s fresh talent is producing these days, the future is looking brighter and brighter.</p>
<p>Recent studies say that <a href="http://blog.printing.org/blog/11798">students prefer print</a>, but did you know many print and graphic arts students are producing outstanding, high-quality printed materials as well? Today’s students tell us a lot about where our industry is heading. That’s why it’s invigorating to see the amazingly creative craftsmanship they’re producing.</p>
<p>Their contributions deserve to showcased! Take a look at some of these outstanding student-produced <a href="http://www.printing.org/ppa">Premier Print Award</a> winners.</p>
<p align="center"><strong><span style="font-size: small; color: #000080;">Examples of Student Entries in the Z-1 Category</span></strong></p>
<p align="center"><img src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/ppa/Z-1.jpg" alt="" height="281" width="400" /></p>
<p align="center"><img src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/ppa/Z-1.png" alt="" height="400" width="400" /></p>
<p align="center"><img src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/ppa/Z-1v2.JPG" alt="" height="443" width="400" /></p>
<p align="center"><strong><span style="font-size: small; color: #000080;">Examples of Past Entries in the Z-2 Category</span></strong></p>
<p align="center"><strong><span style="font-size: small; color: #000080;"><img src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/ppa/Z-2.JPG" alt="" height="256" width="400" /></span></strong></p>
<p align="center"><strong><span style="font-size: small; color: #000080;"><img src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/ppa/Z-2v3.jpg" alt="" height="395" width="400" /></span></strong></p>
<p align="center"><strong><span style="font-size: small; color: #000080;"><img src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/ppa/Z-2v2.jpg" alt="" height="424" width="400" /></span></strong></p>
<p align="center"><strong><span style="font-size: small; color: #000080;"><img src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/ppa/Z-2.2.JPG" alt="" height="144" width="400" /></span></strong></p>
<p><strong>Distinguish YOUR Work</strong></p>
<p>The creators of these award-winning pieces entered the <a href="http://www.printing.org/ppa">Premier Print Awards competition</a>. This prestigious print event offers more than 100 <a href="http://www.printing.org/ppacategories">print categories</a>, and we also have special categories reserved just for student entries. Why are students entering the 2014 Premier Print Awards?</p>
<ul>
<li>Students can enter the competition <strong><em>at discounted rates.</em></strong></li>
<li>Winners receive valuable, industry-wide recognition.</li>
<li>The <a href="https://www.printing.org/award/account">online entry system</a> is easy to use. Here’s a <a href="http://blog.printing.org/blog/11787">blog</a> and a <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kgDJOLhyXv4&amp;feature=c4-overview&amp;list=UUZurUaUORIVQiXww9m5YxiQ">video</a> to tell you more about it!</li>
<li>Categories are designed for High School Students <strong>(Z-1)</strong> and Post-Secondary Students <strong>(Z-2). </strong></li>
<li>Enter as an individual or as a student group.</li>
</ul>
<p><em>Learn more about the 2014 Premier Print Awards at </em><a href="http://www.printing.org/PPA"><strong><em>www.printing.org/PPA</em></strong></a><strong><em>. </em></strong><em>The early-bird deadline is 4.18.14. Final entries are due by 5.16.14. </em></p>
<p><strong>More Opportunities for Students</strong></p>
<p>Entering this competitive job market can be intimidating.&nbsp; But there are many ways students can network and show their talents, such as:</p>
<ul>
<li>Attending industry trade shows</li>
<li>Working in student-run print shops available at some schools</li>
<li>Creating an online portfolio or blog</li>
<li>Entering print competitions</li>
<li>Volunteer to create pieces for a nonprofit or other business</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Do you have a great idea for students looking to gain recognition for their work? Let us know here!</strong></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11811#commentsGeneralMiscellaneousThu, 27 Mar 2014 17:24:18 +0000mflynn@printing.org11811 at http://blog.printing.orgHow Printers Are Getting Their Differentiation Backhttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11806
<p><em>This article is adapted from the article “Differentiation Is Back!” by Paul V. Reilly, Partner, New Direction Partners, published in the </em><a href="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/downloadable_products/1401FC1_General.pdf"><em>2014 FORECAST Part 1: Trends and Tactics</em></a><em>. Reilly is a featured presenter at the </em><a href="http://pls14.printing.org/"><em>2014 Print Leadership Summit</em></a><em>, June 2–3. </em></p>
<p>Technology can be like a double-edged sword. We use technology to increase print quality and differentiate our company. Then, as competitors eventually acquire these same technologies, differentiation decreases, and we’re left right back where we began. You could say that technology is so good, it’s bad!</p>
<p>So the question is: How can printers today distinguish their company when they’re using the same technology that is available and comparable to their competitors’? &nbsp;The solution is customization.</p>
<p>You may have heard of <strong>Proprietary Customer Interface Technology (PCIT).</strong> Our industry has developed this new <img style="float: right;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/conferences/PaulReilly.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="225" />customization tool to solve the technical differentiation problem. Here <a href="http://pls14.printing.org/p/speakers/paul-reilly/">Paul V. Reilly</a> of New Direction Partners explains how adopting PCIT can help you multiply your sales.</p>
<p><strong>What is PCIT?</strong></p>
<p>PCIT is a computer application that facilitates the interaction between the printer and customer—what some might refer to it as “Web-to-print on steroids.” But PCIT is much more than Web-to-print, providing a high level of customization for each customer’s individual needs. PCIT is usually a combination of acquired and custom code, but it always includes custom code. This allows a company to differentiate itself from a competitor who has similar software.</p>
<p>PCIT fully integrates the flow of data between the printer and customer, whether data is stored on the customer’s or printer’s servers. PCIT, similar to all solution sales, transfers risk held by a customer in a transactional sale to the printer. Examples include delivery time and accuracy, versions, proofing, etc. The image shows a schematic of how PCIT works. &nbsp;</p>
<p align="center"><img src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/conferences/PCIT.png" alt="" width="399" height="279" /></p>
<p><strong>How can PCIT help increase profits?</strong></p>
<p>When commercial printers achieve 50% or more in sales processed through PCIT (often referred to as “programmed sales”), overall top-line growth becomes positive. This is pure mathematics. Programmed sales grow 10–15% per year, and such growth overcomes traditional transactional commercial sales, which are decreasing 5–10% per year.</p>
<p>Firms with a majority of their sales as programmed sales have approx­imately 2% of employment dedicated to customer development, and their most recent hires are programmers (not factory personnel). Such a level of commitment is required to write software code for customer “on boarding” (the process of writing code for new customers) and to manage continual customer requests for enhancements.</p>
<p><strong>What effect does PCIT have on retaining customers?</strong></p>
<p>Most advanced users of PCIT are fully integrated in the back end of production and accounting. The success in utilizing PCIT derives from enjoying a high level of customer “stickiness.” This printer/customer integration makes it difficult for print buyers to move the business to a competitor for price—the incumbent is so far ahead with customization, the competitor can’t match the product offering. Price is difficult to measure. Printers may not experience higher pricing, but profits increase throughout the customer life cycle as efficiencies develop and users of PCIT move up the learning curve. In fact, upon achieving 50% or more in programmed sales, PICTs usually carry the benefit of Printing Industries of America <em>Ratios </em>profit-leader-level profits.</p>
<p><strong>Is there any evidence of success rates of PCIT users? </strong></p>
<p>Travel North America and the globe touring printing plants and analyzing their financial strengths, and you’ll see a high correlation between the adoption of PCIT and profits. This correlation is evidenced in the most recent <a href="http://www.printing.org/ratios">Printing Industries of America’s <em>Ratios </em>study</a> where analysts have noted a correlation between adoption of Web-to-print technology and leading-level profits.</p>
<p><strong>Simply put… </strong>Within the commercial print space, there is a development of “Have” and “Have Nots.” The “Haves” utilize PCIT and are growing and profitable. The “Have Nots” are stuck in the malaise that took over our industry in the 2008 recession. Many of the “Have Nots” are struggling to stay in business as they lose market share to the “Haves.”</p>
<p><strong>What advice do you give to printers on adopting PCIT?</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>If you’re going to do it, do it now. Early adopters will be difficult to unseat!</li>
<li>Participate in the many seminars that explore the Web-to-print space.</li>
<li>Buy a software package that you can customize.</li>
<li>Hire a geek who can speak “Techie” and “C-Level.”</li>
</ul>
<p>If you’re eager to learn more on customization with PCIT and other leading technology trends to differentiate your company, you’re not alone. Paul V. Reilly will present his much anticipated session, <a href="http://pls14.printing.org/p/speakers/paul-reilly/">Emerging Technologies in the Printing Industry</a><strong>, at the 2014 Print Leadership Summit, June 2–3, 2014, in Dallas TX. This event focuses on Leadership, Sales, and Technology for today’s industry leaders. For more visit </strong><a href="http://www.printing.org/PrintLeadershipSummit">www.printing.org/PrintLeadershipSummit</a><strong>. </strong></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11806#commentsGeneralConferencesMon, 24 Mar 2014 13:58:10 +0000mflynn@printing.org11806 at http://blog.printing.orgPromotional Products, A Powerful Part of Brand Reinforcementhttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11799
<p><strong><em><span style="color: #ff0000;"><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/bpower/asi_logo.jpg" alt="" height="188" width="552" /></span></em></strong></p>
<p><strong><em><span style="color: #ff0000;">This blog post was contributed by ASI. For more information on the ASI Buying Power Program or any of the Buying Power Programs at Printing Industries of America, visit <a href="http://www.printing.org/buyingpower">www.printing.org/buyingpower</a>.</span> </em><br /></strong></p>
<p><strong>Promotional Products: An Affair to Remember</strong></p>
<p>Promotional products are globally recognized as a powerful part of brand reinforcement, and advertisers can’t get enough.</p>
<p><strong>A Love Story: The Advertiser &amp; the Promotional Product</strong></p>
<p>Did you know that<strong> 86% </strong>of those who own promotional products<strong> remember the advertiser?</strong> On average, <strong>people in the U.S. own 10 promo products.</strong> Whether it’s a calendar, a reusable bag, or coffee mug, logos and brand messages are memorable because they are visible.</p>
<p><strong>The Perfect Match: The Advertiser and the Distributor</strong></p>
<p>How well do promotional products work? In 2013, the industry earned <strong>$20.5 billion.</strong> So, where do promotional products come from, and who’s profiting from them? When advertisers need products for a special promotion, they seek out <strong>distributors</strong> to generate ideas and place orders with suppliers.</p>
<p><strong>The First Date: Getting Started as a Distributor</strong></p>
<p>Becoming a distributor can be as easy and profitable. Let’s do the math: The average order from a single end-buyer is <strong>$1,061.</strong> Five orders per year will bring in <strong>$5,305. </strong>The average small distributor services <strong>94 clients per year,</strong> bringing that total up to <strong>$498,670 </strong>a year.</p>
<p>You don’t have to quit your day job. Many business owners sell promotional products in addition to their primary business. You can earn more money from existing customers. For instance, printers can upsell high-end products like embroidered jackets and engraved awards, to their customers, along with their regular orders. Intrigued?</p>
<p><strong>Happily Ever After</strong></p>
<p>ASI® can help launch your business with robust sourcing tools, free education, catalogs, websites, trade shows, and more! You don’t need a lot of capital or additional staff. You simply sign up, learn, and sell.</p>
<p>Big things come in small packages. If you’re not convinced, check your desk, closet, or vehicle and discover how many of these products you actually own. Visit <a href="http://www.printing.org/asi">www.printing.org/asi</a> to learn more.</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11799#commentsGeneralMember ResourcesTue, 18 Mar 2014 18:11:36 +0000mflynn@printing.org11799 at http://blog.printing.orgWhy Gen Y Is More Print-Friendly Than You Think http://blog.printing.org/blog/11798
<p style="text-align: justify;"><img style="vertical-align: middle;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/images/vop/VOP_Image_Student-Books.jpg" alt="" height="387" width="646" /></p>
<p>Millenials. The Digital Generation. Gen Y. There are different monikers for this generation, but the general characterization is of a younger person attached to their smartphone or other mobile device like a virtual umbilical cord. This is the generation that considers print about as useful a communication form as carrier pigeons, right?</p>
<p>The latest studies are indicating that this isn’t always the case. In fact, one current update from the <a href="http://www.printing.org/valueofprint">Value of Print</a> reports that “A recent study finds the new <em>digital generation</em>—teens, ages 12 to 17—generally have more <strong><em>favorable attitudes</em></strong> <strong><em>toward print</em></strong><strong><em>,</em></strong> radio, and TV ads, than online ads. <em>(Print in the Mix, </em>U.S. Teens Prefer Offline Ads to Online.<em>)</em></p>
<p>Actually, if you—or your customers—assume younger generations communicate solely on an electronic interface, it may be a surprise to learn that a significant number of college-age students today are choosing print for academic reading!</p>
<p><strong>Misconceptions </strong></p>
<p>There are a number of misconceptions around how Gen Y students consume print material. In 2010 experts even predicted that eText (digital textbook) usage would rise more than 16%. However, this increase didn’t happen. (<em>The Hays Daily News,</em> <a href="http://hdnews.net/opinion/schrock021714">Students Prefer Print</a>).</p>
<p>In one study, "<a href="http://crl.acrl.org/content/early/2013/06/28/crl13-483.abstract">Student Reading Practices in Print and Electronic Media</a>," by Nancy M. Foasberg, set to be published in the journal <em>College &amp; Research Libraries</em> in September 2014, researchers tracked the reading habits of the College of New York students. What they found was not a group of digital-addicted zombies but rather scholars who crave the tangible effectiveness printed textbooks afford.</p>
<p>Key findings of the study:</p>
<ul>
<li>Although students used electronic media for non-academic reading, many rely on paper for academics.</li>
<li>As it turns out, students like the interactivity that print allows—taking notes and highlighting on the page.</li>
<li>Several students in the study expressed that they disliked the embedded links in eTexts because they were distracting.</li>
<li>Some students use digital textbooks because their schools offer eBook deals. However those who have eBooks end up printing them out and cancelling out any money they may have saved.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>By the Numbers</strong></p>
<p>For another way to see what medium students prefer, just look at the numbers. In a <a href="http://www.browndailyherald.com/2014/02/27/online-resources-remain-unpopular-among-students/">recent article</a> from Brown University, eBook sales account for less than 0.5% of their bookstore revenue. Although the school expects the eventual transition to digital textbooks, according to Steven Souza, the bookstore’s director, “Students [currently] seem to have zero interest in [eTexts].”</p>
<p>The students there cite their preference for printed books on factors like the ease and familiarity. One student commented, “I like flipping though a textbook.”</p>
<p><strong>This Is Your Brain on Print</strong></p>
<p>Why do students seem to prefer print for academic reading? The Foasberg study claims there are scientific reasons behind their choice. Print may actually have an effect on the brain that makes it a more effective medium for learning. In the study, students who read printed materials before an exam scored an average of <strong><em>10% higher.</em></strong></p>
<p>Is a brain on print really different from a brain on digital? Another author of the study, Ferris Jabr, provided this interesting explanation:</p>
<p align="center"><strong><em>“Research indicates the brain treats words as physical objects which have a placement on a page but are fleeting on screen. Measures of brain activity are high when a student writes letters by hand, but not when they are typed. Text provides us with both ‘deep reading’ and ‘context’.”</em></strong></p>
<p>Jabr’s description would account for the higher-than-average test scores of print-using students. There are some people who can read a digital page and understand the context with clarity; however, it seems that print allows for “deep reading,” where the reader can absorb knowledge at a level that is not as common with electronic media.</p>
<p>So what about the next generation—that four-year-old who’s playing games on a tablet today? Will they adapt more easily and be able to achieve “deep reading” on digital media as we do on print? Will they be more favorable toward online ads?</p>
<p>Let us know your thoughts!</p>
<p><em>For more new facts on the effectiveness and sustainability of print, visit </em><a href="http://www.printing.org/ValueOfPrint"><em>www.printing.org/ValueOfPrint</em></a><em>. </em></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11798#commentsGeneralDigital MediaMon, 17 Mar 2014 20:24:47 +0000ckapanyko@printing.org11798 at http://blog.printing.orgThe Latest from the Performance Plus Global Logistics Buying Power Programhttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11794
<p><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/blog/Performancepluslogo2.png" alt="" width="508" height="234" /></p>
<p>The PPLUS Global Logistics Team is excited to be a part of the Printing Industries of America Buying Power Program. We have seen great success in the first year of the program and enjoyed the opportunity to attend PRINT 13 last fall to meet current customers and gain many new contacts.</p>
<p>In the new year, we have added many new carriers to our database. We are adding new carriers on a daily basis at all locations across the country with enhanced service, added coverage, and aggressively reduced rates. To strengthen the relationship with Printing Industries of America and its affiliates, the PPLUS Team has negotiated for no rate increase this year, which is extremely beneficial to you as members and frequent shippers. &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;At the end of last year, our newly branded Print Freight website, <a href="http://www.printfreight.com">www.printfreight.com</a>, was finalized and created specifically for our printing customers such as yourselves. If you have not yet taken the opportunity to do so, take a look at the newly updated site. If you are not yet a part of our buying power program, you can use the login information below to log in and get rate quotes on your shipments in order to take a look at what we have to offer:</p>
<p><a href="http://www.printfreight.com">www.printfreight.com</a></p>
<p>Username: PIAdemo</p>
<p>Password: password1</p>
<p>In addition, be sure to follow us <a href="http://www.facebook.com/printfreight">Facebook</a>, <a href="http://www.twitter.com/printfreight">Twitter</a>, and <a href="http://www.instagram.com/printfreight">Instagram</a> for the latest news and updates specific to transportation and logistics in the printing industry. If you’re interested in learning more or would like to become a part of this program, contact us directly via phone at 636-946-7587 or send an email to Kasey Lucas at <a href="mailto:Kasey@pplusglobal.com">Kasey@pplusglobal.com</a>. We look forward to working with you and further serving the printing industry!</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11794#commentsGeneralMember ResourcesTue, 11 Mar 2014 19:03:57 +0000ckapanyko@printing.org11794 at http://blog.printing.orgWhat is “integrated marketing communications,” and how can I profit from this process?http://blog.printing.org/blog/11789
<p><em><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/blog/680_4384775.JPG" alt="" height="453" width="680" /></em></p>
<p><em>The following blog post was contributed by Thaddeus B. Kubis, author of </em><a href="http://www.printing.org/bookofmonth">Guide to Integrated Marketing and Media Convergence: The Print Provider's Guide to Use, Sell, and Profit from Integrated marketing and Emerging Technologies<em>,</em></a><em> the Printing Industries Press February/March Book of the Month.</em> </p>
<p>What is “integrated marketing communications,” and how can I profit from this process?</p>
<p>Integrated marketing communications (IMC) is the multi-vitamin of marketing, a tool that allows marketers to provide messages per planned dosages of when, where, how, and why to a targeted demographic or vertical.</p>
<p>An advantage of IMC is that a PSP/CSP [print services provider/communications service provider] can interact and offer many of the media tools used to deliver the prescribed dosage. Tools such as flyers, brochures, and other promotional material are obvious ones, but what about the very quickly changing media landscape detailed below?</p>
<p>Which tools can you simply add to your service mix to expand your business and increase your profits?</p>
<p><strong>Changing Media Landscape</strong><br /><br /> <strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Advertising:</span></strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Broadcast</li>
<li>Online</li>
<li>Mobile</li>
<li>Print</li>
<li>Out of Home</li>
</ul>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Direct Marketing:</span></strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Direct Mail</li>
<li>Email</li>
<li>Events</li>
<li>POP/POS</li>
<li>Education</li>
</ul>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Digital Marketing:</span></strong></p>
<ul>
<li>SEO/SEM</li>
<li>Remarketing (retargeting)</li>
<li>Social Media</li>
<li>Websites/Microsites/Landing Pages</li>
</ul>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Public Relations</span></strong><br /> <strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Media Relations:</span></strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Analyst Relations</li>
<li>Investor Relations</li>
</ul>
<p>Adding IMC tools to your service mix not only will help you develop a dialogue with a prospect or existing customer, but will also allow you to keep the conversation moving forward and allow you to grab the golden ring of sales potential— engagement!</p>
<p><strong>Engagement </strong>means you have an open door to a potential (or existing) client, a door that may have been closed to you before, but is now ajar because you are no longer directly selling. Consultative type selling is not new to this or other businesses. What is new is the simple fact that your existing and potential customers are looking for a consultant to provide new ideas and new ways to reduce cost, increase sales, and expand their profits.</p>
<p>IMC allows you to promote the concept of <strong>profit advocacy,</strong> which is both good for you and your customer. Profit advocacy turns the table. Customers no longer start or end with “What is the cost to print this flyer?” Instead, they might ask, “How can you assist me in developing increased response, reducing my cost per order, and increasing my sales?” That is why IMC is a multi-vitamin; it not only provides measured dosages but also provides both a short-term solution and a long-term strategy to marketing wellness.</p>
<p>Integrated marketing linked to media convergence is a pathfinder to increased business, new and expanded existing business, and increased involvement with your customer and prospect needs. They are tools that enable you to develop a dialogue and establish ongoing engagement that continues the conversation your sales team has started.</p>
<p align="center">Need a plan to Inform, Educate, and Profit? <br />Send your email to me at <a href="mailto:thad.kubis@tifmc.org">thad.kubis@tifmc.org</a> or <strong>Need more? Check out my new book. </strong></p>
<p align="center"><a href="https://system.printing.org/index.php?dispatch=products2.view&amp;product_id=7274"><strong>Guide to Integrated Print and Media Convergence:</strong></a><br /><a href="https://system.printing.org/index.php?dispatch=products2.view&amp;product_id=7274">The Print Provider’s Guide to Use, Sell, and Profit from</a><br /><a href="https://system.printing.org/index.php?dispatch=products2.view&amp;product_id=7274">Integrated Marketing and Emerging Technologies</a></p>
<p align="center"><strong><br /></strong></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11789#commentsGeneralPublicationsWed, 05 Mar 2014 15:20:13 +0000mflynn@printing.org11789 at http://blog.printing.orgFree Publicity: 5 Fundamental Promotional Strategies from PR Proshttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11788
<p><em>This blog is contributed by Jeff Crilley, Author, </em>Free Publicity<em>, and featured presenter at the </em><a href="http://www.printing.org/printleadershipsummit"><em>2014 Print Leadership Summit</em></a><em>. With more than two decades of news experience and hard-earned PR expertise, Crilley shows you how to use fundamental promotion strategies to put your business in the spotlight.</em><br /><img style="border: 1px solid black; vertical-align: middle; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/JeffCrilley2.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="250" /><br /> Do you have a great idea to market your business but no clue how to get noticed by customers? If you’re tired of spending your resources but just not seeing the ROI, I can relate.</p>
<p>After 25 years of beating the street as a TV reporter and now as President &amp; CEO of Real News Public Relations, I have learned what it really takes to get your great ideas in front of your audience. And I have a scoop for you: to get noticed, you need to sell your brand story like reporters sell the front page story. Whether it comes from the newsroom or the pressroom, fundamentally getting attention is all about having the right message at the right time in the right place.</p>
<p>So, here are five fundamental elements that can increase the success of marketing your business from some of the top PR pros in the industry:</p>
<p>1) <strong>Be Unusual</strong></p>
<p>Have you ever seen a promotion that was so different and creative that it made you stop in your tracks? Doing something “outside the box” can be intimidating, but just as the news doesn’t cover what’s normal, the usual promotion won’t get you the head-turning results that can drive more sales. You can say that the old adage about “man bites dog” still holds true—uniqueness sells.</p>
<p>For example, PR whiz Carolyn Alvey knew this when she was trying to raise money for a charity several years ago. Instead of holding a garage sale, she sent out a press release announcing a “Celebrity Garage Sale.” Everything from Bob Hope’s old golf clubs to Roger Staubach’s long-neglected neckties was for sale. By making an ordinary garage sale unique, the media was instantly sold on the story.</p>
<p>How can you apply this idea to your business? Try creating a direct mail piece your customer can’t help but open like this one from <a href="http://www.na.sappi.com/education/act-now">Sappi Fine Paper</a>.</p>
<p>2) <strong>Be Visual</strong></p>
<p>Reporters tell stories with pictures. Brands tell stories as well—through content marketing, social media, print media, and any other communication vehicles. It’s having a visible personality for your company by engaging and connecting with customers on an emotional level.</p>
<p>In the printing and graphic arts industry, a great way to connect is to host tours or open houses for clients and graphic arts students. Then post tour photos on a company Facebook page. Create a company blog and share case studies of satisfied customers. There are many ways to put your business out there and show your customers what you stand for.</p>
<p>3) <strong>Choose the Right Promotional Strategy</strong></p>
<p>Perhaps the most common mistake some companies make is choosing the wrong promotion strategy for their audience. In both the news business and the print business, we need to seek out the communication channels and messaging that resonate with a target audience. There is no one-size-fits-all—Test strategies and measure response rates to determine what works best for your company.</p>
<p>4) <strong>Write Like a Reporter</strong></p>
<p>If I were going to send a press release to a reporter, I’d write the kind of headline that a newspaper would run. When you’re creating a blog title or email subject line, write a headline that would make you read it!<br /> <br /> Why is this so important? Consumers get hundreds of messages every day. Often the decision of whether to read your message is made in a matter of seconds. Many times that well-crafted sentence in the third paragraph of your blog or email is never read. Grab the customer at the beginning and lead them to your call to action.</p>
<p>5) <strong>Wait for Slow Times in Your Market</strong></p>
<p>Reporters take advantage of slow news times like holidays when government offices are closed, and so do most of our sources. When are your biggest downtimes?</p>
<p>Slow times can be great opportunities for marketing your business because 1) you may have more staff and resources to devote to marketing and 2) chances are this is your competitors’ downtime too.</p>
<p>To learn more best practices for marketing your company, <a href="http://pls14.printing.org/p/speakers/jeff-crilley/">Jeff Crilley</a>, an Emmy Award winning reporter and PR professional, is presenting “Talk the Talk: Getting the Attention Your Business Deserves” at the <a href="http://pls14.printing.org/p/">2014 Print Leadership Summit</a>, June 2–3, Dallas, TX.</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11788#commentsGeneralConferencesTue, 04 Mar 2014 19:06:30 +0000mflynn@printing.org11788 at http://blog.printing.orgThe First Step to Your Benny Awardhttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11787
<p>For more than 60 years, there’s been one merit held in the highest esteem from industry pros from around the world. We call him the “Benny,” and Premier Print Award winners recognize it as a golden key to open new business doors.</p>
<p>The <a href="http://www.printing.org/ppa">2014 Premier Print Awards</a> competition is now open. With close to 3,000 entries in 2013, the competition is fierce, but the rewards are plenty. The 112 Best of Category winners, 279 Award of Recognition honorees, 855 Certificates Certificate of Merit recipients, and 4 Best of Show award winners are set to leverage their success and set themselves apart from competitors.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kgDJOLhyXv4&amp;feature=c4-overview&amp;list=UUZurUaUORIVQiXww9m5YxiQ"><img style="vertical-align: baseline; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/2014ppabennyscreen.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="210" /></a></p>
<p>But first things first—you have to enter if you want to win! And here’s how:</p>
<p><strong>Step 1: Choose your finest work! Your piece must have been produced after May 1, 2013.</strong></p>
<p>Now it’s time to submit your pieces and send them to us to be judged.</p>
<p><strong>Step 2: Log in to our online entry system.</strong></p>
<p>To enter online, first visit <a href="http://www.printing.org/award">www.printing.org/award</a>.</p>
<p>For returning entrants, enter your login information. For new entrants, just follow the prompts to create a new account.</p>
<p>Forgot your username/password? Simply enter your email address into the prompt and you will receive an email with instructions to change your password.</p>
<p><strong>Step 3: Enter your piece into our online system.</strong></p>
<p>Click Award Programs.</p>
<p>Select the 2014 Premier Print Awards.</p>
<p>Click Create an Entry.</p>
<p>Select your company name and begin moving down the prompts.</p>
<p>If changes to your company information are necessary, please contact Mike Packard at mpackard@printing.org.</p>
<p>For each entry submitted, complete all fields in the online entry system.</p>
<p>Print out your packing slip and submit it with each piece you enter.</p>
<p>NOTE: some entry categories may require additional information regarding your piece. For a complete listing of all 2014 PPA Categories, visit <a href="http://www.printing.org/ppacategories">www.printing.org/ppacategories</a>.</p>
<p><strong>Step 4: Send in your entry.</strong></p>
<p>Mail your entry to: Premier Print Awards, 200 Deer Run Road, Sewickley, PA 15143, USA.</p>
<p>Remember these important dates!</p>
<p><strong>4.18.14 Early Bird Deadline</strong></p>
<p><strong>5.16.14 Entry Deadline</strong></p>
<p>Just follow these simple steps, and you could be on your way to winning a 2014 Premier Print Award!</p>
<p>And if you have any questions along the way, contact Mike Packard at <a href="mailto:mpackard@printing.org">mpackard@printing.org</a>.</p>
<p>Enter the <a href="http://www.printing.org/ppa">2014 Premier Print Awards</a> today. The early-bird deadline is <strong>April 18, 2014,</strong> and the final entry deadline is <strong>May 16.</strong></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11787#commentsGeneralMember ResourcesMon, 03 Mar 2014 19:42:55 +0000mflynn@printing.org11787 at http://blog.printing.orgGetting Your New Technology to Market: 5 Core Tactics to Keep in Mind http://blog.printing.org/blog/11779
<p><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/016_KI_InterTech_BlogBanner_V2.jpg" alt="" height="179" width="604" /></p>
<p>Are you one of the hundreds of entrepreneurial startup companies that has developed an innovative technology this year? Now that you’ve invested resources into product development, a solid marketing strategy is critical if you want to earn an ROI.</p>
<p>Printing Industries of America provides technical support to countless industry members, and we’ve seen that many of them share a big challenge—getting their technology in front of the right customers. Small startups may have fewer resources to devote to sales and marketing, while some larger companies are searching for new or additional avenues to get in front of their target audience.</p>
<p>Although we can’t give you the magical marketing plan that is going to catapult your brand new technology to market success, we can provide some vital core tactics.</p>
<p>Here are five essential strategies to keep in mind.</p>
<p><strong>1.&nbsp;&nbsp; Create a marketing plan.</strong> <br />Though it may seem like an obvious step, it’s one many companies fail to plan out completely. Ensure you are strategically assessing all the angles. What is the target market for this product? Who are our competitors?&nbsp; What is our total budget? What makes our product unique? Essentially be sure to conduct a comprehensive Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT) analysis. Finalize a solid strategy that meets your main objectives.</p>
<p><strong>2.&nbsp;&nbsp; Research different promotional avenues.</strong><br />To reach a wider audience, some companies may need to take another look at their marketing promotions. At the core, a <a href="http://www.printing.org/valueofprint">media mix</a> that integrates print and digital communication mediums, such as email, direct mail, and social media, is most effective. But are you missing out on other ways to reach your target customer? To make your product stand out from the competition, you may want to try entering relevant industry award programs. Those like the <a href="http://www.printing.org/intertechawards">InterTech ™ Technology Awards</a>, which recognizes innovative technologies, can provide valuable, industry-wide exposure and positive PR.</p>
<p><strong>3.&nbsp;&nbsp; Set your launch date and stick to it.</strong><br />You’ve done extensive research and made a creative plan to strategically promote your product. You know that a launch date helps keep you and your team on track by providing a deadline to work with. Even though some of the best laid plans can still go awry, remind your project leaders that sticking firmly to this date motivates the team to stay focused and in control of the project.</p>
<p><strong>4.&nbsp;&nbsp; Network, network, network!</strong><br />Like most things in life, success really is all about who you know. Companies that spent time widening their social circle can get more face-to-face time with potential clients. Attend <a href="http://www.printing.org/events">conferences</a>, trade shows, and other professional events relative to your business to make valuable connections. Other professional networking resources include industry forums, LinkedIn groups, and listservs.</p>
<p><strong>5.&nbsp;&nbsp; Stay focused on your marketing plan.</strong><br />Finally, remember to keep your eyes on the main goals of your campaign. Track feedback and continue to reassess your plan. You may find adjustments are needed, such as redefining your target market or adjusting your pricing. If your product is successful so far, GREAT! What’s working? If you’re not seeing the success you projected, go back and re-examine your marketing plan to determine where you may need to adjust.</p>
<p><strong>More Resources</strong></p>
<p>Learn more about differentiating your company with the <a href="http://www.printing.org/intertechawards">2014 InterTech ™ Technology Awards</a>.</p>
<p>This award has honored the development of technologies predicted to have a major impact on the graphic arts and related industries. More than 80% of technologies that receive an award experience continued commercial success in the marketplace.</p>
<p>For more industry awards from Printing Industries of America, take a look at our many <a href="http://www.printing.org/printingindustryawards">award programs</a>.</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11779#commentsGeneralResearch and TechnologyTue, 25 Feb 2014 14:59:11 +0000mflynn@printing.org11779 at http://blog.printing.orgWhere Should We Play Ball?http://blog.printing.org/blog/11774
<p><em>This article was submitted by T.J. Tedesco, founder and president of Grow Sales, Inc., and keynote speaker at the </em><a href="http://www.printing.org/printleadershipsummit"><em>2014 Print Leadership Summit</em></a><em>. </em></p>
<p>In 2012, would you have predicted that a book manufacturer would increase its sales 50% in 2013? Or that a postpress equipment manufacturer would grow sales more than 15%?&nbsp;</p>
<p>“Whoa there, T.J.," you might be thinking. "Are these significant companies?”</p>
<p>Absolutely. Both have been around for decades, and both crossed into the eight-figured sales level last year. The book manufacturer client has reached heights that would’ve been unthinkable five years ago. The equipment manufacturer client may have been larger once, but that was nearly two decades ago.</p>
<p>How did they achieve this growth? Better operations execution? Better marketing? Better selling? Together these activities might boost sales and profitability a smidge. But double-digit, sustainable growth? Keep dreaming. In this industry, better execution alone isn’t enough.</p>
<p><strong>Change the Game</strong></p>
<p>These companies grew because they moved their markets. They’ve both tapped into our industry’s growing on-demand segment. Not by simply subbing in digital for offset, but by completely re-orienting their approaches to their production workflows, their customers, and their businesses in general.</p>
<p>It’s not enough to keep moving the chains. You have to change where the game’s being played. Leadership discussions at your business should begin with this question: <em>Where should we play ball?</em>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Stay Competitive</strong></p>
<p>Bill Gates had an awesome quote about twenty years ago: “We always overestimate the change that will occur in the next two years and underestimate the change that will occur in the next ten.”&nbsp; All printing company leaders would do well to keep this thought in mind today.</p>
<p>Let’s not panic and forget to block and tackle. Doing the fundamentals well will keep us competitive for the next two years. But if we don’t reimagine our companies, industry, and competitive landscape within the next ten years, we’ll likely be out of business.</p>
<p><em>T.J. Tedesco will deliver a keynote presentation, </em>Gloom or Bloom—Setting the Course For the Future, <em>at the</em> <a href="http://www.printing.org/printleadershipsummit"><em>2014 Print Leadership Summit</em></a>, <em>June 2–3 at the Fairmont Hotel in Dallas, TX. </em></p>
<p><em>T.J.</em> <em>is founder and&nbsp;president of </em><a href="http://www.growsales.com"><em>Grow Sales, Inc</em></a><em>., an outsourced sales growth services company serving&nbsp;the graphic arts industries since&nbsp;1996. Grow Sales, Inc. has helped many dozens&nbsp;of companies grow their top and bottom lines by carefully guiding their sales,&nbsp;marketing, public&nbsp;relations and graphic and web design efforts. T.J. is the&nbsp;author of eight books, three on marketing and sales. T.J. can be reached at&nbsp;(301) 294-9900&nbsp;or&nbsp;</em><a href="mailto:tj@growsales.com"><em>tj@growsales.com</em></a><em>. </em></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11774#commentsGeneralConferencesMon, 17 Feb 2014 18:16:32 +0000mflynn@printing.org11774 at http://blog.printing.orgWhat Really Makes a Profit Leader a “Profit Leader”? http://blog.printing.org/blog/11772
<p><img src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/Econ/econblogimage.jpg" alt="" height="510" width="680" /></p>
<p>Each year, you analyze your company’s key performance indicators (KPIs). You use the <a href="http://www.printing.org/ratios"><em>Ratios</em></a> to compare your numbers against industry profit leaders—the top 25% in terms of profit as a percent of sales. Then you note discrepancies and come to educated conclusions, like “Our paper costs are out of line with industry averages we need to review our contracts with our vendors” or maybe “Our waste and spoilage figures are higher than average” or “Our sales per factory employee are too low to support our current staffing; we need to increase sales to current customers, develop new market opportunities, or reduce our staffing levels.”</p>
<p><strong><em>But what does it really take to be more profitable? </em></strong></p>
<p>Our members wanted to know, so our <a href="http://www.printing.org/economics">Center for Economics and Market Research</a> team designed a revealing new survey. It uncovers <strong><em>how</em></strong> profit leaders get successful and <strong><em>what</em></strong> strategies they’re using that you’re not.</p>
<p>The <strong>Strategic Management Survey</strong> looks deeper at the management processes profit leaders use. It goes beyond asking printers to share their numbers to really discover <strong><em>what makes a profit leader a “profit leader.” </em></strong>If you want to know, just <a href="http://www.cvent.com/d/04ql6g">take the survey</a> to find out!</p>
<p>We asked <a href="mailto:EGleeson@printing.org">Ed Gleeson</a>, Director, Center for Economics and Market Research, about this new survey and how it will help printers increase their profits.</p>
<p><strong>You just released the new Strategic Management Survey. Can you tell us more about and how it helps printers become more profitable?</strong></p>
<p>When we consult with members about how they can benchmark their financial ratios to the profit leaders, the feedback we often get is that they already know where they have to improve. What they are more interested in is <em>“how”</em> profit leaders earn more per every dollar in sales.</p>
<p>Using the <em>Ratios</em> for financial benchmarking is a great starting point for developing a strategy to become a profit leader and can help you determine some of your strengths and weaknesses. The Strategic Management Survey is designed to help take you to the next level by determining which practices help lead to increased profitability.</p>
<p>For example, according to the <em>2013 Ratios</em>, on average a profit leader with $3 million in sales spends 32.6% of sales on factory payroll, while the average printer allocates 37.0% of sales to factory payroll. In this example the profit-leading firms save $132,000 a year in factory payroll costs. How do the profit leaders produce the same volume of work at a significantly lower labor rate? This survey is designed to determine how and why profit leaders are more efficient and productive. It also determines what strategic management practices correlate most with profitability.</p>
<p>To put it in perspective, the <em>Ratios</em> provide the “where” do we need to improve, and the Strategic Management Survey provides the “how”—its purpose is to fill the gap of how to develop a business that is more profitable.</p>
<p><strong>What prompted your decision to develop this survey?</strong></p>
<p>We recognized the need for the Strategic Management Survey based on the feedback we received from <em>Ratios</em> users. The main reason was to fill the gap of knowledge of how profit leaders develop a profitable business. Competing in a sector of the industry that is growing can help drive profits, but we also want to explore the relationship between various strategic management factors such as culture, planning, analysis, implementation, and tracking with profitable sales growth.</p>
<p><strong>What are some of the questions this survey will answer for printers?</strong></p>
<p>We strive to answer members’ questions concerning how they can best use strategic management to increase their odds of succeeding, including:</p>
<ul>
<li>What are the differences in strategic culture between profit leaders and the industry average?</li>
<li>Do companies that focus on creating a healthy strategic culture achieve more success than those that do not?</li>
<li>Do profit leaders have a formalized, in-depth strategic analysis and planning program that includes both internal and external analysis of their environment?</li>
<li>Are enough resources dedicated to strategy implementation? Are goals defined, measured, and compared to actual operations?</li>
</ul>
<p>The differences between how profit leaders and average performers answer these questions will help us determine how average firms can improve their chances of becoming industry profit leaders.</p>
<p><strong>In what ways does participating in this survey benefit respondents?</strong></p>
<p>Just by taking the time to complete the survey you may discover some gaps in your strategic management practices. The survey covers the following topics:</p>
<ul>
<li>Strategic Culture</li>
<li>Strategic Analysis and Planning</li>
<li>Strategic Plan Implementation</li>
<li>Financial Outcomes</li>
<li>Market Conditions</li>
<li>Company Demographics</li>
</ul>
<p>You will also receive the final report and our analysis of the results for free. On average the survey takes 20 to 30 minutes to complete. We realize that this is a substantial time commitment for members. For this reason, the survey is programmed so you can save your responses and complete the survey at your convenience.</p>
<p><strong>How does a member participate in the survey and receive the complimentary results?</strong></p>
<p>To participate in the survey, use the following link: <a href="http://www.cvent.com/d/04ql6g">http://www.cvent.com/d/04ql6g</a>. <strong><em>You will need a “Survey Password” to log into the survey, which you can get by contacting me at </em></strong><a href="mailto:egleeson@printing.org"><strong><em>egleeson@printing.org</em></strong></a><strong><em>*.</em></strong> All responses are confidential and the results are reported in aggregate. The “Survey Password” provides an extra layer of security to ensure your response remains confidential.</p>
<p>To thank you for contributing your time and information, we will send all survey participants a free copy of the Strategic Management Report when it is published in <strong><em>June 2014.</em></strong> It will also be available for purchase at $250 for members who do not participate in the survey. If you have any questions about completing the survey or receiving the free report, please feel free to <a href="mailto:edgleeson@printng.org">contact me</a>.</p>
<p><strong>How to take part in the </strong><a href="http://www.cvent.com/d/04ql6g"><strong>2014 Strategic Management Survey</strong></a><br /> The survey is now open. Here’s how you can participate:</p>
<ol>
<li>Visit <a href="http://www.cvent.com/d/04ql6g">http://www.cvent.com/d/04ql6g</a>.</li>
<li>Contact <a href="mailto:EGleeson@printing.org">Ed Gleeson</a> to obtain your confidential “Survey Password.”</li>
<li>You can save your responses and complete the survey at your convenience, but please allow a total of 20–30 minutes to complete the survey.</li>
<li>All participants receive a full copy of the published report in June 2014.</li>
</ol>
<p>The Strategic Management Report will also be available for purchase at <a href="http://www.printing.org/store">www.printing.org/store</a> in June 2014. (Members: $250; Non-members: $750)</p>
<p>For more information contact Ed Gleeson at <a href="mailto:egleeson@printing.org">egleeson@printing.org</a>.</p>
<p><em>*If you are opted into Printing Industries of America surveys, you may receive an email invitation to participate in the 2014 Strategic Management Survey. Your “Survey Password” will be included in this email.</em></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11772#commentsGeneralEconomicsWed, 12 Feb 2014 18:25:00 +0000mflynn@printing.org11772 at http://blog.printing.orgOSHA HazCom Updates: What You Need to Do and Whenhttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11769
<p>As you know the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has revised Hazard Communication Standard (HCS), which means a new to-do list for many printers. Last time we told you about the <a href="http://blog.printing.org/blog/11768">EHS resources available</a> even if you missed the initial training deadline of December 2013.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Here is a “Who, What, Why, When, and Where” overview to give you a clearer explanation of what you need to do and when to do it to remain in compliance.</p>
<p><strong>WHO Do These New Standards Affect?</strong></p>
<p>All printing operations are subject to the Hazard Communication Standard because of the use of chemicals such as inks, toners, cleaning solutions, etc. As a printing operation, you must provide information to your employees about the hazards associated with your chemicals, including how to work with them in a safe manner through labels and Safety Data Sheets (SDSs), which are replacing the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) and provide more detailed information in a uniform format.</p>
<p><strong>WHAT Actions Must My Company Take?</strong></p>
<p>The Hazard Communication Standard requires all employers with hazardous chemicals in their workplaces to:</p>
<ul>
<li>Prepare and implement a written hazard communication program.</li>
<li>Develop a written inventory of products that contain hazardous chemicals.</li>
<li>Obtain, maintain, and make available to employees SDSs for all products on the written inventory.</li>
<li>Ensure all containers, including in-plant or secondary ones, are properly labeled.</li>
<li>Conduct employee training.</li>
</ul>
<p>Due to the revisions made by OSHA to incorporate the GHS (the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling Chemicals), there are several changes printing operations need to make within the next two years to meet the new requirements. <strong>The main areas</strong> covered follow.</p>
<p><strong>Initial employee training </strong>to be completed by <strong>December 1, 2013.</strong> <em>If you have not started training your employees yet or need help, see the training materials </em><a href="http://www.printing.org/hazcom"><em>here</em></a><em> (member login required). </em></p>
<p>The deadline for <strong>revising&nbsp; chemical container labels</strong> is <strong>December 1, 2015.</strong> The completely revised product label requirements mandate that specific information must be included on each label. These new requirements state that labels will now require all of the following:</p>
<ul>
<li>Product identifier</li>
<li>Signal word</li>
<li>Hazard statement(s)</li>
<li>Pictogram(s)</li>
<li>Precautionary statement(s)</li>
<li>Supplier information</li>
</ul>
<p>For more information on the pictograms, see the<a href="https://system.printing.org/index.php?dispatch=products2.view&amp;product_id=7181"><strong>Safety Poster – Pictograms Quick Reference</strong></a><strong>.</strong></p>
<p><strong>In-plant container labels</strong> also require special attention. The revised standards acknowledge the same secondary container rule: <em>If an employee transfers a material from a labeled container to a secondary container, which is intended only for immediate use by that employee, and that employee understands the hazards associated with the material, then that container does not have to be labeled unless it is either stored for future use or passed to another employee.&nbsp; </em></p>
<p><strong>One major change to the in-plant labeling system</strong> is to the Hazard Materials Identification System (HMIS). The HMIS numeric coding states that hazard categories (health or physical) are based on the degree of severity with a numeric rating from zero to four, with four representing the greatest severity. <strong><em>However, with the new rule aligned with GHS, the opposite numbering order is true with respect to hazard determination.</em></strong> Under the new rule, a Category 1 of any hazard is the highest level of severity. Because of this difference in rating and the potential for confusion in recognizing hazard severity, the HMIS system is not recommended for in-plant alternative labeling until such time as the HMIS system is revised to align with the GHS.</p>
<p><strong>Safety Data Sheets,</strong> the newly aligned MSDS, provides 16 sections addressing issues involving product and hazard identification, ingredients, and toxicological information, first aid and fire-fighting measures, handling and storage, and more. Check out the<a href="https://system.printing.org/index.php?dispatch=products2.view&amp;product_id=7180"><strong>Safety Poster—Get to Know the Safety Data Sheet</strong></a> for a full list.</p>
<p>Additionally, under the HCS there is a <strong>new hazard classification—“Hazards Not Otherwise Classified.” </strong>This new class requires any chemicals not listed in the other sections should be disclosed in Section 2 of the SDS, Hazards Identification. They are not, however, required to be disclosed on the hazard warning label. To avoid confusion with the “Hazard Not Otherwise Classified” category, OSHA revised the definition of “Hazardous Chemical” to include pyrophoric gases, simple asphyxiants, and combustible dust.</p>
<p>Lastly, <strong>Employee Information Training</strong> must include the following topics:</p>
<ul>
<li>Methods and observations workers can use to detect the presence or release of a hazardous chemical in the work area.</li>
<li>The physical hazards of chemicals in their work area.</li>
<li>The health hazards of chemicals in their work area.</li>
<li>Measures workers can take to guard against physical and health hazards (e.g., appropriate work practices, emergency procedures, and personal protective equipment use).</li>
<li>Details of your hazard communication program, including location and availability of the written hazard communication program and the required list of hazardous chemicals and MSDSs/SDSs, an explanation of the workplace labeling system, and how to read and use SDSs to obtain hazard information.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>WHY Did OSHA Revise These Regulations?</strong></p>
<p>The most recent changes to HCS were done for several reasons, with the primary ones focusing on standardizations and harmonization with similar systems around the world. The expected benefits of these changes are fewer updates to safety data sheets and labels, as well as simpler hazard communication training. The revisions should also reduce trade barriers by allowing for a more uniform approach that is recognized around the world.</p>
<p><strong>WHEN Must Our Operation Meet These New Requirements? </strong></p>
<p>The phase-in period OSHA has implemented will span the next couple of years. Key due dates for print operation employers are:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>December 1, 2013—</strong>Complete initial training of employees in understanding the new container labels and SDSs</li>
<li><strong>December 1, 2015—</strong>Full compliance with label requirements</li>
<li><strong>June 1, 2016—</strong>Updated internal workplace labeling systems and completed employee labeling training</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>WHERE Can We Find Help Implementing These Changes?</strong></p>
<p>We have some great news for any printing operation looking to integrate the new GHS program elements. There are several tools you can use to examine your current plan, develop a new plan, and incorporate these elements immediately:</p>
<p>The <a href="http://www.printing.org/hazcom">Hazard Communication Guidance for Printing Operations</a> is a <strong><em>free </em></strong>online resource to help our members fulfill training requirements (available for purchase for non-members in the <a href="https://system.printing.org/index.php?dispatch=products2.view&amp;product_id=7336">bookstore</a>). Here you will find:</p>
<ul>
<li>Updated SDS and labeling information</li>
<li>Instructions, sample programs, and forms for developing your HCS program</li>
<li>Training tools (videos, PowerPoint, etc.)</li>
</ul>
<p>In addition, the EHS Department offers consulting services to assist its members in developing and implementing a Hazard Communication program. The range of services includes reviewing existing programs and providing feedback through developing a complete turnkey training program. Contact the EHS Department at <a href="mailto:EHS@printing.org">EHS@printing.org</a> for more information.</p>
<p>Contact the EHS experts at Printing Industries of America! Visit <a href="http://www.printing.org/ehs">www.printing.org/ehs</a> or call 800-910-4283 ext. 794.</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11769#commentsGeneralGreen and SustainabilityWed, 05 Feb 2014 21:00:57 +0000mflynn@printing.org11769 at http://blog.printing.orgOSHA HazCom Updates: Why You Don’t Need to Panichttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11768
<p>When it comes to the newly revised Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the countdown is on to comply with a long list of important new requirements—which means, yes, more acronyms!</p>
<p>The new requirements started with mandatory employee training that had to be completed in December 2013, and the remaining requirements will be phased in over the next several years with the final deadline in June 2016. OSHA has adopted the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling Chemicals (GHS), and as a result there are significant changes that all employees need to know about.</p>
<p><strong><em>If you’ve missed the initial training deadline, don’t panic! </em></strong></p>
<p>Our <a href="http://www.printing.org/ehs">EHS department</a> has published a number of resources to assist members with complying, including a concise training video covering the topics required in the initial training and a customizable PowerPoint presentation for a more in-depth training session.</p>
<p>To help make this a more streamlined process, we’ve put together the <a href="http://blog.printing.org/blog/11769">“Who, What, Why, When, and Where” </a>of OSHA’s Hazard Communication requirements to give you a clear explanation of what you need to do and when to do it to remain in compliance. There is also a dedicated members-only webpage to help our industry members through this process. You’ll find a <a href="http://www.printing.org/hazcom">free online guide</a> full of critical information, sample program material, forms, and more downloadable tools. Now is the time to prepare your operation and start making the required changes.</p>
<p>For more information on the steps you need to take to remain in compliance, look at part two of this story <a href="http://blog.printing.org/blog/11769">here</a>.&nbsp;</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11768#commentsGeneralGreen and SustainabilityWed, 05 Feb 2014 20:59:24 +0000mflynn@printing.org11768 at http://blog.printing.org10 Ways to Keep Your Best Clientshttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11753
<p><em>We extend a special thank-you to Leslie Groene, President, Groene Consulting, for contributing this information. Leslie is a keynote speaker at the </em><a href="http://pls14.printing.org/"><em>2014 Print Leadership Summit</em></a><em>.</em></p>
<p>“Treat others as you like to be treated.” This little piece of fundamental advice our mothers gave us can be a giant step to success, and it applies to the business world as well. Sales can pose a huge challenge to many printing and graphic arts companies whose best clients can easily take their business elsewhere. <strong>So what is a key way to make them stay?</strong></p>
<p>One answer is <strong><em>exceptional customer service.</em></strong> Offering engaging, customized service that focuses on the customer allows you to stand out from your competitors, gain your clients’ trust, and ultimately increase your sales. &nbsp;</p>
<p>Your sales team is one of the “necessary pillars” of the print business, as Leslie Groene explains in her keynote session, “Does Your Business Have the Right Pillars in Place?” at the first ever <a href="http://pls14.printing.org/">Print Leadership Summit</a>, June 2–3, 2014. The job of your sales team is to prospect and develop and maintain profitable relationships with clients. Help them not only reach your top clients, but hold on to them with these 10 best practices:</p>
<p><strong>1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Do your daily and weekly homework and stay current on all aspects of your product or services.</strong><br /><br />Stay one step (or more) ahead and anticipate your client’s needs. Read about their business, their industry, and their products and services. A great way to gain a client’s trust is to understand the challenges they face and the environment they live in.</p>
<p><strong>2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Go the extra mile in serving your client’s needs.</strong><br /><br />To maintain or build stronger relationships with your clients, listen to their needs and follow through on all action items. Keep consistent communication and address any concerns the moment they arise. Best practices include sending handwritten thank-you notes and personally delivering proposals to your customers.</p>
<p><strong>3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Deal with the challenge of cold calling.</strong><br /><br />First follow any regulations regarding who you may contact and when, but also keep looking for more opportunities to reach out to potential customers. Some great ways to accomplish this are:</p>
<ul>
<li>Send a company newsletter.</li>
<li>Call clients who would benefit from the latest update or technology.</li>
<li>Network within your industry and community.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Determine who the real players are and find a way to get their attention.</strong><br /><br />It may be easy to spot the movers and shakers in your industry, but how do you reach them? If you did your homework (see step 1), you can find the door to make a connection. What trade organizations are they involved in? Do they support any causes or groups? Find what interests them and place yourself in a position to reach them. <br /><br />Another option is to take the more direct approach and just tell them what your company can do for them. But remember to play the odds and only pursue those that you feel would see potential in your offer.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>5.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Fall in love with people, not projects.</strong><br /><br />It’s easy to get personally involved in certain projects, but keep your ROI in mind. Assess if the time, money, and effort you’re putting into a project will pay off. It’s important to remain objective—for you and your clients! Your responsibility, to your client and yourself, is to keep your main goals on target.</p>
<p><strong>6.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Get in your client’s face!</strong><br /><br />If you want to build a relationship with your client, you have to BE THERE! Selling is all about relationships. You’ve already invested the resources to earn their business and their trust. Now stay in contact. This means <em>quality, face-to-face</em> time such as a lunch meeting. Look for new ways to get in front of your client so you’re always a welcome partner.</p>
<p><strong>7.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Creating a newsletter will get you in front of potential clients.</strong><br /><br />Another way to stay visible is by sending a regular newsletter. Use it as a way to help your clients find new information that pertains to their business needs. Ideally, many of these resources will come from your firm. Whether print or online, make sure your distribution list is up to date.</p>
<p><strong>8.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; The power of word-of-mouth referrals.</strong><br /><br />One of the most effective forms of promotion, a word-of-mouth referral, usually will get you the business. Look at your profession in a long-term view and pay close attention to the details in serving your clients’ needs better.</p>
<p><strong>9.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Develop a sales approach to your buyers that WORKS.</strong><br /><br />You’ve built trust with your clients by consistently representing their best interests. Remember that it’s about more than just meeting sales quotas; it’s delivering the highest value possible to your clients. Master your sales practice so you can provide the highest degree of business intelligence for your customers.</p>
<p><strong>10.&nbsp;&nbsp; “Network…network…network!”</strong><br /><br />Get to know the top professionals in your industry and build relationships. Do your homework and get to the trade shows and conferences where you can meet them. Seek the events that deal with the issues that will challenge your industry. Not only will you stay up to date, but you’ll also discover many top professionals there searching for solutions—solutions you can offer to them!</p>
<p><em>The premier </em><a href="http://pls14.printing.org/"><strong><em>Print Leadership Summit</em></strong></a><strong><em>,</em></strong><em> held June 2–3, 2014, at the Fairmont Dallas Hotel, in Dallas, TX, is no ordinary conference. It’s where industry leaders convene and learn how to transition through the hard times. <br /> <br /> Take part in three tracks that hit on the key focus areas for today’s evolving companies: <strong>Leadership</strong>—ideal for Presidents, CEOs, and other top executives; <strong>Sales</strong>—for top sales and marketing executives; and <strong>Technology</strong>—geared for technology leaders and upper management.</em></p>
<p><em>Register today at <a href="http://pls14.printing.org/p/">www.printing.org/printleadershipsummit</a>.<br /> <br /> </em></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11753#commentsGeneralConferencesMon, 27 Jan 2014 14:43:47 +0000mflynn@printing.org11753 at http://blog.printing.orgHow to “Be a Leader in Every Way” and other Winning Advice from NFL Coacheshttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11752
<p>Look back at all of the great mentors who have influenced you—bosses, coaches, professors. Though sometimes challenging, they teach us to achieve higher, go further, and surpass our goals. True team leaders inspire us throughout our careers and throughout our lives. <a href="http://bia14.printing.org/p/speakers/anthony-griggs/">Anthony Griggs</a> learned from some demanding coaches as an NFL professional. And it was these high standards that inspired him to become a leader as a Director of Player Development for the Pittsburgh Steelers.</p>
<p>Now Griggs shares his most important lessons learned in leadership—foundations that apply everywhere from the playing field to the board room. Here he discusses some of his most inspiring mentors, the lessons he’s learned, and how business leaders can apply them.</p>
<p><strong>Inspiration: Coach Dick Vermeil, Philadelphia Eagles</strong></p>
<p><strong>Lesson: Being a leader is about more than just working hard.</strong></p>
<p>When I was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles, all of the team members were gathered at training camp. As we were seated in a room, theatre style, Coach Dick Vermeil entered the room and began to speak to us. I certainly anticipated a motivational speech filled with Coach Vermeil’s high expectations.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Notepad in hand, I was ready to jot down the list of things that I needed to do to stay on the team.&nbsp; But I was unaware that I was about to learn a skill I would draw upon through my entire career.</p>
<p>Vermeil began his speech by recognizing all of the past players. He painted a picture of their characters—their devotion to the fans and dedication to hard work. He highlighted plays that team members made and what their efforts meant to the team as a whole.&nbsp;</p>
<p>I remember him speaking of Bill Bergey, the great Philadelphia Eagles linebacker and, as we learned, a great inspiration to the team as well. Bill had a knack for communicating with people, Vermeil described. He was able to say things to the players that resonated with them. He could make that personal connection that rallied their spirits and motivated them to succeed.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Coach Vermeil talked for over an hour about former Eagles. The other players and I listened intently to so many uplifting stories, so many glorious moments. Then it hit me. All I needed to write down on that pad of paper was this one phrase: <strong><em>“Be a Leader in Every Way.”</em></strong>&nbsp;</p>
<p>That was just as important as me working hard, learning plays, and performing well on the field.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>How can you be a positive influence?</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Look at each of your team members as an individual with their own different motivations.</li>
<li>Recognize individual employee contributions and how each has benefitted your company.</li>
<li>Determine what drives a person and use that drive to help them reach their goals. For instance, if your employee wants to become a manager, lead them in that direction.</li>
<li>Keep their eye on the goal and don’t lose sight of the big picture.</li>
<li>Be a leader in every way by embracing the gifts of each employee.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Inspiration: Coach Marty Schottenheimer, Cleveland Browns</strong></p>
<p><strong>Lesson: Passionate people inspire passion in others. </strong></p>
<p>While playing with the Cleveland Browns, our coach, Marty Schottenheimer, had this uncanny way of looking each of us square in the eye, like he was searching to see if he could find “the gleam.” He always told us, “There’s a gleam, we got to get the gleam. If I can see the gleam in your eye, then I can see the passion that you have for the game.”&nbsp;</p>
<p>And it wasn’t just on the field. He used to walk right up to us, no matter where we were, and determine if he could see the passion in our eyes. His standard of working with passionate players kept us eager. He wanted us to be developed as players and focus on the purpose.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
<p>One of the things that I admired most of all was that he wasn’t afraid to change the purpose. He had us tuned into that purpose; what it was and how we could achieve it as a team.&nbsp; Because of this skill, not only was he gifted at coaching the players, he was exceptional at coaching other coaches.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Schottenheimer gave many head coaches their first coaching jobs. All of these coaches have coached under Schottenheimer:</p>
<ul>
<li><a title="Bill Cowher" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bill_Cowher">Bill Cowher</a>, <a title="Pittsburgh Steelers" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pittsburgh_Steelers">Pittsburgh Steelers</a></li>
<li><a title="Gunther Cunningham" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gunther_Cunningham">Gunther Cunningham</a>, <a title="Kansas City Chiefs" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kansas_City_Chiefs">Kansas City Chiefs</a></li>
<li><a title="Tony Dungy" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tony_Dungy">Tony Dungy</a>, <a title="Tampa Bay Buccaneers" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tampa_Bay_Buccaneers">Tampa Bay Buccaneers</a> and <a title="Indianapolis Colts" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indianapolis_Colts">Indianapolis Colts</a></li>
<li><a title="Lindy Infante" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lindy_Infante">Lindy Infante</a>, <a title="Green Bay Packers" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Green_Bay_Packers">Green Bay Packers</a></li>
<li><a title="Mike McCarthy (American football)" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mike_McCarthy_(American_football)">Mike McCarthy</a>, <a title="Green Bay Packers" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Green_Bay_Packers">Green Bay Packers</a></li>
<li><a title="Herman Edwards" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herman_Edwards">Herman Edwards</a>, <a title="New York Jets" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_York_Jets">New York Jets</a> and <a title="Kansas City Chiefs" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kansas_City_Chiefs">Kansas City Chiefs</a></li>
<li><a title="Cam Cameron" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cam_Cameron">Cam Cameron</a>, <a title="Miami Dolphins" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Miami_Dolphins">Miami Dolphins</a></li>
<li><a title="Wade Phillips" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wade_Phillips">Wade Phillips</a>, <a title="Denver Broncos" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Denver_Broncos">Denver Broncos</a>, <a title="Bufallo Bills" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bufallo_Bills">Buffalo Bills</a>, and <a title="Dallas Cowboys" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dallas_Cowboys">Dallas Cowboys</a></li>
<li><a title="Tony Sparano" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tony_Sparano">Tony Sparano</a>, <a title="Miami Dolphins" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Miami_Dolphins">Miami Dolphins</a></li>
</ul>
<p><strong>How can you be a positive influence?</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Practice what you preach. Have a passion for what you do and require that same passion from your employees.</li>
<li>Passion is a motivator. It results in a more intense focus on your main objectives.</li>
<li>As you develop your employees, adhere to high standards of professionalism and they could become the future leaders.</li>
</ul>
<p><em>If you want more inspiration, Anthony Griggs is presenting at the </em><a href="http://www.printing.org/biaconference"><em>2014 BIA Annual Conference</em></a><em>, March 30–April 2, in Dallas, TX. Find out more about his session “</em><a href="http://bia14.printing.org/p/speakers/anthony-griggs/"><em>Leading like an NFL Coach</em></a><em>,” where he’ll explore more case studies in impactful leadership and share how business professionals are currently applying them.</em></p>
<p><strong>How have leaders inspired you in your career? Feel free to post a comment and share your experience.</strong></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11752#commentsGeneralConferencesFri, 24 Jan 2014 17:50:44 +0000mflynn@printing.org11752 at http://blog.printing.orgGetting Started: Automation Solutions to Differentiate Your Companyhttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11749
<p>With rapid technological advances in recent years, we in the graphic arts industry are all trying to adapt to a changing market. Today it’s all about the customer experience. Clients demand accurate work and fast turnaround. Thanks to many new technologies, companies are able to differentiate themselves with the efficiency and high quality attainable only through <a href="http://www.printing.org/automation">automation solutions</a>.</p>
<p>“You can’t manage what you don’t measure.” This idea, in a nutshell, is what automated job management allows. You need to measure key metrics like <em>throughput, inventory, expenses, </em>and<em> customer satisfaction</em> to better manage and control your operations. Progressive companies, like our speakers from <a href="https://www.knowclassic.com/who-we-serve">Classic</a> in Charlotte, NC, and <a href="http://dmedelivers.com/case-studies/">DME</a> in Daytona Beach, Florida, have systems to track these metrics and quantify their impact on performance, production workflow changes, and the effectiveness of the messaging they are providing their customers. Automated systems provide the most reliable data.</p>
<p>So how do you begin improving your process and embracing an automated system? Here are answers to some of the common questions about implementing new automated technology in the production workflow.</p>
<p><strong>My company wants to optimize our job workflow to cut costs and increase production and quality. How do we get started?</strong></p>
<p>To get the greatest ROI, first take the time to look at each individual step in your workflow, from how your company acquires customers to how products are delivered and invoiced, and assess how an automated system will fit in. Go for low-hanging fruit—those areas that cause the most issues or bottlenecks.</p>
<p><strong>Once we have studied our current workflow, what automated solutions are available to track jobs throughout our facility? </strong></p>
<p>Tracking and connectivity can include <a href="http://www.printing.org/cim">JDF</a> and JMF messaging, shop floor data collection, or a direct machine interface. These selections may be fully integrated into an MIS or a standalone third-party system where you decide how integrated it is with your existing production workflow.</p>
<p><strong>How do we choose between a fully integrated MIS vs. a third-party automated solution? <br /> </strong><br /> Each choice offers its own advantages and disadvantages, depending on the specific needs of your facility. The important factors you need to consider when choosing are 1) the workflow circumstances within your shop, 2) any existing automated workflow systems, and 3) the greatest waste origins like production facility bottlenecks.</p>
<p><strong>What benefits does an MIS offer? </strong></p>
<p>The benefits are limitless, but mainly it increases efficiency and profitability for your entire operation when well implemented. As the sophistication of the MIS increases, the ability to collect and track job data becomes more refined.</p>
<p><strong>What are some of the biggest advantages of embracing automation?</strong></p>
<p>There are multiple advantages of using automation, and some of them are summarized below:</p>
<ul>
<li>Tracking job performance metrics allows you to better manage expenses and inventory. It increase throughput, customer satisfaction, and, ultimately, profits.</li>
<li>Managers are aware of a job’s status at any given time. They can use it to inform decisions like taking on new jobs and adjusting production schedules.</li>
<li>Managers have a sound basis for benchmarking operational performance and making more informed business decisions.</li>
<li>Providing metrics on the effectiveness of the campaigns creates an intimate relationship with the customer and helps justify a supplier’s role in those campaigns.</li>
</ul>
<p>Is your company ready to embrace a new automated workflow or upgrade an existing system? Join the <a href="http://www.printing.org/asnwinter2014">&nbsp;2014 Automation Solutions Network Meeting</a>, <em>February 11–12, in Daytona Beach, FL at DME</em>. Tour the trendsetting DME facility, a unique marketing solutions provider with a remarkable degree of automation. Register at <a href="http://www.printing.org/asnwinter2014">www.printing.org/asnwinter2014</a>.</p>
<p><strong>Related resources:</strong></p>
<p>Read the complete article, “<a href="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/Res_Tech/2013_06_Magazine/BohanJ0bM4n4g3m3nt&amp;Tr4ack1ngPr0ductpg130913.pdf">Job Management and Tracking Product</a>” and <a href="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/Res_Tech/2013_06_Magazine/BohanQ&amp;Apg140913article.pdf">interview from Dr. Mark Bohan</a>, VP, Technology and Research, in the <em>Printing Industries of America: The Magazine</em> September 2013 issue.</p>
<p>Discover more on MIS and other technology topics at the <a href="http://www.printing.org/free">Free from Center for Technology and Research</a> page.</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11749#commentsGeneralConferencesWed, 22 Jan 2014 15:07:24 +0000mflynn@printing.org11749 at http://blog.printing.orgQuiz: Lean Leaders in the 2014 CI Conference Tourshttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11747
<p>What do lipstick, and sheet metal, have in common? No, it’s not some college hazing stunt gone bad. It is all included in the range of <a href="http://ci14.printing.org/p/program/tours/">exciting tours</a> you can experience as part of the <a href="http://www.printing.org/ciconference">2014 Continuous Improvement Conference</a> in Dallas, TX. This year’s tours at <a href="http://www.marykay.com.au/">Mary Kay Manufacturing</a> and <a href="http://www.karlee.com/index.php">KARLEE</a> &nbsp;get you in to see award-winning Lean manufacturing management and quality practices in progress. They will leave you so impressed you’ll be ready to “throw your hat over the windmill!”</p>
<p>Although you may be familiar with these facilities (as well as some Texas colloquialisms) but you may be surprised by some of their most remarkable quality and manufacturing features. To give you a better look at what you can expect from these tours, we’ve put together this short quiz.</p>
<p>So if you think you’re “as bright as a new penny,” take a shot at these stumpers.<br /> <em>(Answers included below—but don’t peek!)</em></p>
<p>1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; On average, Mary Kay Manufacturing’s 25 packaging lines produce how many tubes of lipstick?</p>
<p style="padding-left: 60px;">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; A. 7,000<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; B. 100,000<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; C. 25,000<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; D. 15,000</p>
<p style="padding-left: 60px;">2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Recognized as an FDA-registered drug manufacturing plant, how many TimeWise<sup>®</sup>Day Solution Sunscreen SPF 22 can the facility produce in a typical 10-hour shift?<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; A. 13,500<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; B. 25,500<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; C. 72,500<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; D. 18,500</p>
<p style="padding-left: 60px;">3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Mary Kay’s commitment to consistent quality is evident in the number of different product and product component tests performed each year. With 100,000 analytical measurements of products, how many measurements of packaging components are performed each year?<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; A. 50,000<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; B. 100,000<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; C. 250,000<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; D. 350,000</p>
<p style="padding-left: 60px;">4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; In what year did the President of the United States present KARLEE with the prestigious Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award for their “best in class” quality?<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; A. 2000<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; B. 2003<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; C. 2010<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; D. 2012</p>
<p style="padding-left: 60px;">5.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; In this same year, KARLEE employed more than 500 team members who helped the company reach a revenue of:<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; A. $500,000<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; B. $10 million<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; C. $50 million<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; D. $80 million</p>
<p style="padding-left: 60px;">6.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; KARLEE uses ISO 9001-2000, TL 9000, and AS 9100 registrations to develop, optimize, and improve processes by following this approach:<br /><br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; A. The Precision Sheet Metal Benchmarking Standards<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; B. The Total Quality Management trilogy<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; C. The KARLEE Quality Standards<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; D. The Quality manufacturing Standards of Texas</p>
<p><em>Answers:</em></p>
<p><em>1: c—The Mary Kay Manufacturing plant can produce a whopping 25,000 tubes of lipstick in a normal shift, in addition to 35,000 trays of cheek color and 50,000 bottles of body wash.</em></p>
<p><em>2: d— Mary Kay produces and distributes products classified as over-the-counter drugs, such as about 18,500 bottle of sunscreen.</em></p>
<p><em>3: c— 250,000 measurements of packaging components are performed each year at Mary Kay plus more than 1,000 stability studies on products and 300,000 tests on ingredients and finished goods.</em></p>
<p><em>4: a— KARLEE won the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award in the year 2000 and is constantly pursuing continuous improvement.</em></p>
<p><em>5: d— Also in 2000, KARLEE and its team reached the $80 million revenue mark.</em></p>
<p><em>6: b— With the Total Quality Management trilogy, KARLEE can drive continuous improvement through metrics analysis, root cause analysis, and closed loop corrective action.</em></p>
<p>Learn more about the <a href="http://www.printing.org/ciconference">2014 Continuous Improvement Conference</a>, March 30–April 2, at the Fairmont Dallas Hotel, Dallas, TX. Tours may be added at the time you register.</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11747#commentsGeneralConferencesWed, 22 Jan 2014 14:31:36 +0000mflynn@printing.org11747 at http://blog.printing.org10 Inspiring ways to Reward Employees in 2014http://blog.printing.org/blog/11741
<p>Why is employee recognition important? It’s one of the most powerful recruiting and retaining tool. The Department of Labor reports that a reason why 64% of employees leave their job is because they are not recognized. So if you want to know the true measure of a company, simply count its number of satisfied employees!</p>
<p>More graphic arts companies of all sizes are learning <strong><em>the value of putting their people first. </em></strong>When firms recognize employees for their achievements, their employees:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Develop a clearer understanding of company goals.</strong></li>
<li><strong>Are more engaged, productive, and motivated.</strong></li>
<li><strong>Stay longer with their company. </strong></li>
</ul>
<p>Are you struggling to come up with new ideas for employee incentives, or trying to get your incentive program up and running? We’ve put together this list of <strong><em>10 inspiring ways to reward your employees </em></strong>that are low cost and low tech, perfect for small- and medium-size firms.&nbsp; But no matter where you work, when you put your <a href="http://www.printing.org/hr">people first</a>, business success follows.</p>
<p align="center"><span style="color: #00ccff;">Does your company have a great employee incentive strategy? Why not tell your customers and potential employees?</span></p>
<p align="center"><span style="color: #00ccff;">Share how your company puts <strong>#PeopleFirst.</strong> We could choose your response to recognize on <a href="http://www.printing.org/HR"><span style="color: #00ccff;">www.printing.org/HR</span></a> along with your company name!&nbsp; <strong>Join the conversation on our </strong><a href="https://www.facebook.com/printingindustries"><span style="color: #00ccff;"><strong>Facebook</strong></span></a><strong> and </strong><a href="https://twitter.com/printind"><span style="color: #00ccff;"><strong>Twitter</strong></span></a><strong> pages using #PeopleFirst.</strong></span></p>
<p align="center"><strong><a href="10%20Inspiring%20ways%20to%20Reward%20Employees%20in%202014%20%20Why%20is%20employee%20recognition%20important?%20It’s%20one%20of%20the%20most%20powerful%20recruiting%20and%20retaining%20tool.%20The%20Department%20of%20Labor%20reports%20that%20a%20reason%20why%2064%%20of%20employees%20leave%20their%20job%20is%20because%20they%20are%20not%20recognized.%20So%20if%20you%20want%20to%20know%20the%20true%20measure%20of%20a%20company,%20simply%20count%20its%20number%20of%20satisfied%20employees!%20More%20graphic%20arts%20companies%20of%20all%20sizes%20are%20learning%20the%20value%20of%20putting%20their%20people%20first.%20When%20firms%20recognize%20employees%20for%20their%20achievements,%20their%20employees:%20• Develop%20a%20clearer%20understanding%20of%20company%20goals.%20• Are%20more%20engaged,%20productive,%20and%20motivated.%20• Stay%20longer%20with%20their%20company.%20%20Are%20you%20struggling%20to%20come%20up%20with%20new%20ideas%20for%20employee%20incentives,%20or%20trying%20to%20get%20your%20incentive%20program%20up%20and%20running?%20We’ve%20put%20together%20this%20list%20of%2010%20inspiring%20ways%20to%20reward%20your%20employees%20that%20are%20low%20cost%20and%20low%20tech,%20perfect%20for%20small-%20and%20medium-size%20firms.%20%20But%20no%20matter%20where%20you%20work,%20when%20you%20put%20your%20people%20first,%20business%20success%20follows.%20Does%20your%20company%20have%20a%20great%20employee%20incentive%20strategy?%20Why%20not%20tell%20your%20customers%20and%20potential%20employees?%20%20Share%20how%20your%20company%20puts%20#PeopleFirst.%20We%20could%20choose%20your%20response%20to%20recognize%20on%20www.printing.org/HR%20along%20with%20your%20company%20name!%20%20Join%20the%20conversation%20on%20our%20Facebook%20and%20Twitter%20pages%20using%20#PeopleFirst.%20Watch%20the%20video%20to%20learn%20more!%20<LINK%20TO%20VIDEO>%20%201. Provide%20training%20opportunities—Investing%20in%20ongoing%20employee%20development%20programs%20not%20only%20improves%20job%20skills%20and%20troubleshooting%20abilities%20but%20also%20contributes%20to%20professional%20and%20personal%20advancement%20(see%20Tip%20#2).%20Plus,%20cross-training%20gives%20employees%20more%20job%20security%20and%20your%20company%20greater%20flexibility.%20%202. Promote%20from%20within—With%20the%20right%20skill%20sets,%20established%20and%20trusted%20employees%20can%20advance%20and%20fill%20other%20needs%20within%20the%20company.%20Inside%20promotions%20show%20management’s%20investment%20in%20its%20people.%20%203. Reward%20across%20the%20board—When%20recognizing%20achievements,%20don’t%20just%20highlight%20that%20person%20who%20gets%20the%20biggest%20contract.%20Call%20out%20the%20team%20player%20who%20always%20lends%20a%20helping%20hand%20or%20the%20take-one-for-the-team%20player%20who%20worked%20overtime%20to%20finish%20a%20big%20project.%20%20%204. On%20that%20note,%20Take%20time%20to%20highlight%20each%20department%20like%20prepress,%20admin,%20or%20customer%20service%20reps.%20The%20Employee%20Recognition%20Program%20gives%20special%20recognition%20weeks%20that%20coincide%20with%20industry%20milestones%20like%20Ben%20Franklin’s%20birthday%20(Press%20Operators,%20Assistants%20and%20Helpers%20Week,%20Jan.%2012–18,%202014)%20and%20the%20creation%20of%20the%20U.S.%20Postal%20Service%20(Mailers%20Week,%20July%2020–26,%202014).%20A%20little%20“thank%20you”%20goes%20a%20long%20way!%20%205. Incentivize%20profitable%20ideas—An%20idea%20that%20generates%20revenue,%20saves%20on%20costs,%20or%20increases%20safety%20is%20valuable.%20Show%20your%20employees%20that%20management%20listens%20to%20and%20encourages%20their%20ideas%20with%20awards%20and%20recognition.%20%206. Recognize%20outstanding%20performance—When%20an%20employee%20goes%20above%20and%20beyond%20to%20do%20something%20that%20benefits%20the%20company,%20make%20a%20big%20deal%20about%20it.%20Success%20is%20contagious,%20and%20people%20remember%20the%20celebration%20that%20ensued%20for%20their%20good%20deed.%20%20%207. Celebrate%20milestones—Do%20you%20have%20a%20loyal%20employee%20who%20has%20been%20devoted%20to%20your%20company%20for%20a%20number%20of%20years?%20Recognize%20them%20with%20a%20cash%20reward%20or%20personalized%20certificate.%20%208. Endorse%20volunteerism%20and%20community%20relations—Why%20not%20give%20employees%20paid%20time%20to%20participate%20in%20organized%20volunteer%20activities%20(or,%20better%20yet,%20joining%20them%20in%20the%20activities!)?%20%20Show%20that%20you%20care%20about%20the%20community%20and%20the%20world%20beyond%20the%20company%20walls.%20Also,%20getting%20to%20see%20how%20your%20work%20positively%20affects%20others%20is%20a%20huge%20motivator.%20According%20to%20new%20reports,%20this%20is%20a%20key%20way%20to%20engage%20millennials%20(those%20born%20in%20the%20early%201980s%20to%20early%202000s—your%20next%20crop%20of%20employees!)%20%209. Share%20the%20wealth—Beyond%20a%20competitive%20salary,%20many%20firms%20offer%20pension%20plans%20and/or%20401(k)%20plans%20with%20company%20contributions.%20Today,%20profit%20sharing%20is%20expected%20from%20many%20employees%20who%20see%20it%20as%20their%20company’s%20investment%20in%20the%20long-range%20health%20of%20them%20and%20their%20families.%20%20%2010. Take%20a%20time%20out—Everyone%20needs%20a%20break%20sometimes,%20and%20all%20work%20and%20no%20play%20can%20eventually%20lead%20to%20a%20burn%20out.%20Take%20a%20day,%20an%20afternoon,%20or%20an%20hour,%20and%20let%20staff%20members%20participate%20in%20a%20non-work-related%20activity.%20That%20inter-department%20kickball%20tournament%20can%20also%20be%20a%20great%20team%20builder!%20%20%20For%20more%20information:%20A%20great%20way%20to%20benchmark%20your%20HR%20programs%20is%20to%20learn%20what%20other%20companies%20are%20doing.%20Learn%20what%20other%20companies%20are%20doing.%20Check%20back%20on%20our%20Human%20Relations%20page%20to%20see%20how%20they’re%20putting%20#PeopleFirst!%20%20You%20can%20share%20your%20best%20practices%20on%20our%20Facebook%20and%20Twitter%20pages%20using%20#PeopleFirst.%20%20Discover%20more%20on%20resources%20like:%20• Employee%20Recognition%20Program%20–%20for%20custom%20reward%20certificates.%20• Best%20Workplace%20in%20the%20Americas%20Program—to%20earn%20your%20company%20recognition%20for%20best%20HR%20practices.%20• “The%20Secret%20to%20Employee%20Recognition%20Programs.”—for%20tips%20and%20tricks.">Watch the video to learn more!</a><br /> </strong></p>
<p align="center"><strong><iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/OKgn19PaYj0" width="320" height="240"></iframe><br /></strong></p>
<ol>
<li><strong>Provide training opportunities—</strong>Investing in ongoing employee development programs not only improves job skills and troubleshooting abilities but also contributes to professional and personal advancement (see Tip #2). Plus, cross-training gives employees more job security and your company greater flexibility.</li>
<li><strong>Promote from within—</strong>With the right skill sets, established and trusted employees can advance and fill other needs within the company. Inside promotions show management’s investment in its people.</li>
<li><strong>Reward across the board—</strong>When recognizing achievements, don’t just highlight that person who gets the biggest contract. Call out the team player who always lends a helping hand or the take-one-for-the-team player who worked overtime to finish a big project. </li>
<li>On that note, <strong>Take time to highlight each department</strong> like prepress, admin, or customer service reps. The <a href="http://www.printing.org/erp">Employee Recognition Program</a> gives special recognition weeks that coincide with industry milestones like Ben Franklin’s birthday (Press Operators, Assistants and Helpers Week, Jan. 12–18, 2014) and the creation of the U.S. Postal Service (Mailers Week, July 20–26, 2014). A little “thank you” goes a long way!</li>
<li><strong>Incentivize profitable ideas—</strong>An idea that generates revenue, saves on costs, or increases safety is valuable. Show your employees that management listens to and encourages their ideas with awards and recognition.</li>
<li><strong>Recognize outstanding performance—</strong>When an employee goes above and beyond to do something that benefits the company, make a big deal about it. Success is contagious, and people remember the celebration that ensued for their good deed. </li>
<li><strong>Celebrate milestones—</strong>Do you have a loyal employee who has been devoted to your company for a number of years? Recognize them with a cash reward or <a href="http://www.printing.org/erp">personalized certificate</a>.</li>
<li><strong>Endorse volunteerism and community relations—</strong>Why not give employees <strong><em>paid</em> </strong>time to participate in organized volunteer activities (or, better yet, joining them in the activities!)?&nbsp; Show that you care about the community and the world beyond the company walls. Also, getting to see how your work positively affects others is a huge motivator. According to <a href="http://www.jdsupra.com/legalnews/welcome-to-the-21st-century-heres-how-43878/?goback=.gmp_5029621#!">new reports</a>, this is a key way to engage millennials (those born in the early 1980s to early 2000s—your next crop of employees!)</li>
<li><strong>Share the wealth—</strong>Beyond a competitive salary, many firms offer pension plans and/or 401(k) plans with company contributions. Today, profit sharing is expected from many employees who see it as their company’s investment in the long-range health of them and their families. </li>
<li><strong>Take a time out</strong>—Everyone needs a break sometimes, and all work and no play can eventually lead to a burn out. Take a day, an afternoon, or an hour, and let staff members participate in a non-work-related activity. That inter-department kickball tournament can also be a great team builder!</li>
</ol>
<p><strong>For more information:</strong></p>
<p>A great way to benchmark your HR programs is to learn what other companies are doing. Learn what other companies are doing. Check back on our <a href="http://www.printing.org/humanrelations">Human Relations</a> page to see how they’re putting #PeopleFirst!</p>
<p>You can share your best practices on our <a href="https://www.facebook.com/printingindustries">Facebook</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/printind">Twitter</a> pages using<strong> #PeopleFirst.</strong></p>
<p>Discover more on resources like:</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.printing.org/erp">Employee Recognition Program</a> – for custom reward certificates.</li>
<li><a href="http://www.printing.org/bwa">Best Workplace in the Americas Program</a>—to earn your company recognition for best HR practices.</li>
<li>“<a href="http://www.printing.org/page/11627">The Secret to Employee Recognition Programs</a>.”—for tips and tricks.</li>
</ul>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11741#commentsGeneralHuman RelationsTue, 14 Jan 2014 16:03:02 +0000mflynn@printing.org11741 at http://blog.printing.org5 Reasons You Should Consider Focusing on Sales and Marketing RIGHT NOWhttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11738
<p><em>In today’s business world, using current sales and marketing strategies can be daunting. This article comes from guest blogger, Kelly Mallozzi, speaker at the </em><a href="http://www.printing.org/biaconference"><em>2014 BIA Annual Conference</em></a><em> and contributor to the </em>Success.In.Print<em>. blog at PIworld.com.</em></p>
<p>“It always seems impossible until it’s done” –—Nelson Mandela</p>
<p>What a spectacularly simple quote from one of the world’s greatest, bravest, and most influential leaders.</p>
<p>Viewing something as impossible often has to do with fear. Fear is what keeps us from acting.&nbsp; There are all kinds of fear—fear of the unknown and fear of rejection are just two. So here are five reasons to motivate you to get beyond your fear and take some action with regard to your sales and marketing efforts today.</p>
<ol>
<li><strong>Your competition is doing it. </strong>There is someone out there right now who does what you do and thinks they can do it better than you. And they are telling that story all over town.&nbsp; In fact, they are telling it to your customers. Please don’t get outsold because you are complacent or comfortable.</li>
<li><strong>The world has changed. </strong>Technology is not only available; it is the preferred method of communication for entire generations of people. While that may seem scary, it is also a fantastic opportunity. You can use technology to communicate with huge groups of people at once very cost-effectively.</li>
<li><strong>Your customers expect it. </strong>Websites, blogs, and social media presence are all considered MUST HAVES for any business today. Prospects will notice your absence in the sandbox.</li>
<li><strong>It’s not as hard as you think it is. </strong>See the quote above—while it’s not exactly a piece of cake, much of social media participation just requires showing up and sharing your knowledge.</li>
<li><strong>It is more than worth it. </strong>Making sales calls, focusing on your target market, developing a multi-touch communications strategy—these will all pay off for you. I promise. Just go ahead and try to prove me wrong!</li>
</ol>
<p><em>After 15 years in selling print, Kelly Mallozzi is now a consultant helping printers of all sizes sell more. Kelly joins a lineup of </em><a href="http://bia14.printing.org/p/speakers/"><em>influential speakers</em></a><em> at the 2014 BIA Annual Conference. In her session, “</em><a href="http://bia14.printing.org/p/speakers/kelly-mallozzi/"><em>Selling the New Technology Economy</em></a><em>”, she shows conference attendees how to optimize technology, including social media, to drive sales through case studies, demos, and more.</em></p>
<p><em>Register For the 2014 BIA Annual Conference at </em><a href="http://www.printing.org/biaconference"><em>www.printing.org/biaconference</em></a><em>, held</em><em>March 30–April 2, at The Fairmont Dallas Hotel, in Dallas, Texas.</em></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11738#commentsGeneralConferencesMon, 13 Jan 2014 16:11:17 +0000mflynn@printing.org11738 at http://blog.printing.orgMore Than Just Tools: How to Begin Building a Sustainable Culture of Continuous Improvementhttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11736
<p>Where can business leaders find a blueprint for transforming their company through <a href="http://www.printing.org/ciconference">continuous improvement</a>? As Executive Director of one of the most prestigious Lean awards in the country, The Shingo Prize for Operational Excellence, <a href="http://ci14.printing.org/p/speakers-2/robert-miller/">Robert Miller</a> has seen leaders build lasting cultures on the valuable concepts of The Shingo Model.</p>
<p>We asked him for advice he would give business leaders within the graphic arts industry on beginning a continuous improvement program. Of course, like anything worth accomplishing, building a successful program comes with intrinsic challenges. Robert also offers some tips on how you can focus and prepare for these challenges and get on your way to creating a prosperous Lean organization.</p>
<p>…Or maybe even receiving the next Shingo Prize?</p>
<p><strong>Q:</strong> What is the first thing that leaders need to start doing in order to build a culture of excellence? <br /> &nbsp;<br /> <strong>Robert Miller:</strong> First, leaders must make it very clear in their own minds, and in the collective minds of the leadership team, what excellence looks like. This cannot be a description of the tools people will be using or the programs that must be implemented. Rather excellence requires a <em>clear description</em> <em>of the results expected</em> and an equally <em>clear focus on the behaviors</em>that must be demonstrated by both the senior team and management teams in addition to all of the associates in the organization. With a clear picture of what excellence must look like, organization leaders must then be able to see the realities of where they currently are relative to this new standard of excellence.</p>
<p><strong>Q:</strong> What guiding principles should leaders focus on?&nbsp; <br /> <br /> <strong>RM:</strong> All of the principles identified in the <a href="http://www.shingoprize.org/model-guidelines.html">Shingo Model</a> are critical in the creation of enterprise excellence, but in reality most organizations are in different places relative to these principles.&nbsp; The best place to start is to <em>identify the business outcomes that are in greatest need of improvement</em> then determine which of the ten guiding principles will have the greatest impact on those outcomes.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Q:</strong> What are the telltale signs that continuous improvement is not yet ingrained in a company’s culture?&nbsp; <br /> <br /> <strong>RM:</strong>&nbsp; There are several issues that would signal that a company is still vulnerable:</p>
<ol>
<li>If you are still thinking in any way that building a culture of enterprise excellence is something that can largely be delegated down or out to HR or to a department for continuous improvement, you are still vulnerable.&nbsp;</li>
<li>Look around, and if you measure your progress in terms of “events” or “projects” completed … you are still vulnerable.&nbsp;</li>
<li>If senior leaders or managers or front line supervisors use words that suggest in any way that they are too busy doing to pay attention to the improvement … you are still vulnerable.&nbsp;</li>
<li>If behavior is seen as a “soft” thing, the responsibility of HR … then you are still vulnerable.&nbsp;</li>
<li>If improvement is driven by numbers or results and does not include an equal focus on ideal principle-based behaviors … then you are still vulnerable.</li>
</ol>
<p><strong>Q:</strong> Is there a particular principle that leaders seem to have the most difficulty taking to heart and reinforcing within the organization?&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>RM:</strong> The enabling principle of “Respect for every individual” is the most critical and difficult for many organizations to fully understand and align with. I recently took a group of executives on a study trip where we were looking for evidence of how organizations were specifically applying the principle of respect. We discovered a wide range of motivations, but most were driven purely by an incentive to improve profitability. We observed that these companies actually realized the greatest improvement in profitability when <em>the motivation came from a genuine acknowledgement that every individual had intrinsic value and an unlimited potential to improve.</em> The difference is subtle but also fundamental and transformative for a culture.</p>
<p><strong>Want to learn more?</strong></p>
<p><strong>This is your opportunity! Robert Miller</strong>, Executive Director, The Shingo Prize for Operational Excellence, is a keynote speaker at the <a href="http://www.printing.org/ciconference"><strong>2014 Continuous Improvement Conference</strong></a>, March 30–April 2, at The Fairmont Dallas, Dallas, TX.In his highly anticipated session, <a href="http://ci14.printing.org/p/speakers-2/robert-miller/">Building a Sustainable Culture of Excellence Based on Principles</a>, attendees will learn about:</p>
<ul>
<li>The changing role of leaders in building a culture of operational excellence</li>
<li>How you and your managers can become more centered around these principles</li>
<li>The criteria and methods for assessing your organization’s Lean transformation progress</li>
</ul>
<p>Find all the conference details and registration at <a href="http://www.printing.org/ciconference">www.printing.org/ciconference</a>.</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11736#commentsGeneralConferencesWed, 08 Jan 2014 19:34:59 +0000mflynn@printing.org11736 at http://blog.printing.orgThe Continuous Improvement Conference—The Event That Never Stops Givinghttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11725
<p style="text-align: left;" align="center"><em>This article is contributed by guest writer, John Compton, Principle, Compton &amp; Associates, and long-time supporter of the Continuous Improvement Conference.</em></p>
<blockquote>
<p style="text-align: left;" align="center">"In my 40 years of attending and presenting at a variety of conferences, I’ve yet to find a conference where the openness and sharing equals that which occurs at the CI Conference."</p>
</blockquote>
<p>It’s no surprise to me that we are preparing to hold the 25<sup>th</sup> annual <a href="http://www.printing.org/ciconference">Continuous Improvement Conference</a>. Why the longevity? It’s simple: the people and companies attending over the years have greatly benefitted from the learning and sharing that occur every year at this conference.</p>
<p><strong>No Secrets among Friends</strong></p>
<p>From the beginning, the purpose of the conference was to provide a venue for people to learn about quality improvement and share their experiences in applying emerging concepts and tools within the printing industry. In fact, in my 40 years of attending and presenting at a variety of conferences, I’ve yet to find a conference where the openness equals that which occurs at the CI Conference. In the various case studies offered each year, companies voluntarily present methods and techniques they use to significantly improve quality and reduce costs and lead time, often with direct competitors sitting in the audience. Then they entertain specific questions on how they achieved their improvements and offer specific answers. It’s safe to say there are no secrets at this conference!</p>
<p>&nbsp;<strong>Will Work for Quality</strong></p>
<p>How can this happen when there is so much competition in our industry? Again, I think the answer is quite simple: while there are no secrets on how to achieve a more rapid rate of improvement, it’s clear that it’s not easy to do. (There is a valuable <a href="https://www.cvent.com/Surveys/Welcome.aspx?s=70d8b685-bc14-4dfd-9d84-4b7b58254087">CI knowledge quiz</a> if you want to find your knowledge gaps.) Whether it’s total quality, six sigma, ISO 9000, Lean manufacturing, or any of the other approaches, it’s hard work. And like anything that’s hard, you must have a reason to sweat for it. The print companies presenting their case studies at this conference detail just how hard it is to achieve and sustain improvement in lead times, waste reduction, and operating costs. So while the concepts, methods, and results are laid out for attendees to see, each company must provide its own energy, desire, and resources for a successful CI journey. In short, each must have a good reason to sweat for it. Without it, the methods produce limited, short-term results.</p>
<p>&nbsp;<strong>Looking Back and Looking Forward </strong></p>
<p>I’ve attended and presented at 23 of the 24 conferences held so far, and as I look back over the <a href="http://ci14.printing.org/p/about/25-years-of-conference-highlights/">25-year history</a>, I see how far this event—and our industry—have come:</p>
<ul>
<li>Initially, those attending the early conferences were primarily QC managers and supervisors. Quality had been delegated to a single department, and the focus was primarily on the product. The principle quality method was visual inspection for color, registration and fit, and a variety of physical defects. We were just learning about the benefits of process control in addition to product control as an improvement approach. Today it’s well established that if you want the right product or outcome, you have to have the right process. Thus, the focus on process improvement and the methods and strategies of achieving it play a dominant role in the conference today.</li>
<li>The first few years saw a heavy focus on the application of statistical process control with its specific use in the pressroom. The focus was on variation reduction to achieve greater consistency and less waste. Today, the conference emphasizes the idea of operational excellence and the broad application of improvement methods to all of the critical processes in the value stream. As a result, we now see owners, presidents, vice-presidents, general managers, production managers, and other senior managers regularly attending the conference.</li>
<li>In the 1980s quality was seen as primarily a technical issue with a focus on product control. Fortunately, our thinking has broadened. Today we understand that quality and continuous improvement are primarily a management issues and that the role of all employees and the brainpower they possess must be tapped and applied if we are to improve faster than our competitors.</li>
</ul>
<p>Finally, I believe 2014 attendees understand that quality is a business issue, one that cannot be delegated to a single manager or department. Our value streams cross many departments, and everyone owns a piece of the waste, lead time, and costs they produce. Companies who realize this recognize that everyone needs to understand how to improve their processes and work on it every day.</p>
<p>Yes, the CI Conference truly is the annual event that keeps on giving—giving detailed insight and guidance on how to achieve a more rapid rate of improvement. When printing companies merge that information with their own energy and drive to improve, the results can be outstanding!</p>
<p><em>How do you see this conference evolving in the coming years? Feel free to share your ideas in the comment section!</em></p>
<p>For more information on continuous improvement topics, access a library of Lean <a href="http://ci14.printing.org/p/resources/">resources</a>, including the free <a href="https://www.cvent.com/Surveys/Welcome.aspx?s=70d8b685-bc14-4dfd-9d84-4b7b58254087">Continuous Improvement Quiz</a> where you can immediately gauge your CI knowledge.</p>
<p>Register today for the <a href="http://www.printing.org/ciconference">2014 Continuous Improvement Conference</a>, March 30–April 2, at The Fairmont Hotel, Dallas, TX. Register before February 21, 2014, and receive a copy of <em>Carrots and Sticks Don’t Work</em> by Paul Marciano.</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11725#commentsGeneralConferencesWed, 18 Dec 2013 21:41:27 +0000sshea@printing.org11725 at http://blog.printing.orgAre You an Inspirational Leader?http://blog.printing.org/blog/11697
<p><em><img src="/efiles/eweb/images/blog/megan/775_4153532.JPG" alt="" height="563" width="680" /></em></p>
<p><em>The following blog post has been contributed by Patrick Sweeney, President, Caliper.</em></p>
<p>Leadership is constantly evolving, whether it’s how to strategically lead a business into the future or how to innovate in a digital world that is changing by the second. But there is one facet of leadership that remains the same—the importance of being inspirational.</p>
<p>Employees are what drive a company forward, and if they aren’t inspired or they don’t feel motivated by their leadership, both leaders and their companies will ultimately miss the mark.</p>
<p>An inspirational leader starts by listening, then engaging, and then developing their people.</p>
<p><strong>Listen</strong></p>
<p>Listening is the key to truly connecting with employees. And from listening, trust develops. Leaders have to take a moment to step outside their own roles and understand what it is that motivates their top performers, what ideas they can share, and how effectively they function with their teams. Top performers provide key information about the rest of the organization.</p>
<p>Successful leaders are able to call on their most valuable employees in middle management, for example, to help them get clarity on the big picture. They are the ones who can walk alongside leaders and help them understand the inner workings of the rest of the organization. So without them, many leaders would be lost—as it is nearly impossible for leaders to spend time with every individual in the company.<br /> <br /> <strong>Engage</strong></p>
<p>A study conducted by Society for Human Resource Management indicates that employees are 87 percent less likely to leave a company than those who are disengaged. In addition, further studies show that only 26 percent of leaders today are creating an engaging environment for their people. Employee engagement begins with leaders showing they value their people and they are willing to spend time and resources on helping them capitalize on their strengths.</p>
<p>Leaders should make it a priority to connect with their key people, build strengths around them, and engage them to exceed expectations. And most important, they must make sure that each of their top performers knows they are truly valued.</p>
<p>So taking the time to connect with key people in the organization can manifest itself as:</p>
<ul>
<li>Setting aside weekly or biweekly meetings with managers in the organization.</li>
<li>Taking the time to understand the manager’s and their team’s workload, and any concerns that might exist.</li>
<li>Reinforcing a job well done, while providing constructive feedback on growth opportunities.</li>
</ul>
<p>In order to keep your employees engaged, you must make a solid commitment to developing their potential. As a result, business outcomes can become more predictable, and you can ensure you retain more top performers.</p>
<p><strong>Develop</strong></p>
<p>Development can take the form of personalized coaching, team building, or management training—or a combination of those. Ongoing development is not limited to the new employee: team members, leaders, and colleagues all benefit greatly when collaboration and trust exist. Organizational coaches are able to assess your specific situation and provide personalized programs based on your company’s needs.</p>
<p>This can be done by creating appropriate development programs for both your leaders and your employees. Start by determining what your organization needs and what goals you wish to achieve. Then, you’ll be ready to assess what kinds of plans and programs are available to address the specific issues, challenges, and objectives that matter to you.</p>
<p>Especially now, with people being asked to do more and more with less resources, development is essential to the future of an organization. It could be difficult and restrictive for a leader to tackle coaching and development on their own, so bringing in the objective insights from a coach could enhance the organization’s resources in a short amount of time.</p>
<p>Such development programs are entirely customizable based on the needs of the organization. Below are examples of what some programs might look like. Companies will often use a combination of the ideas or will seek out something entirely specialized to suit the company’s goals:</p>
<p>1. <span style="text-decoration: underline;">Coaching</span>. Customized, in-depth coaching process and developmental plan from an objective, third-party coach that helps pinpoint abilities, motivations, and growth opportunities.</p>
<p>2. <span style="text-decoration: underline;">Top Talent Retention</span>. A consultant works one-on-one with top performers to help them assess their talents, identify hidden potential, and clarify their goals while linking their abilities and interests with the needs of the organization. Increasing top employees' feelings of value increases loyalty and tenure.</p>
<p>3. <span style="text-decoration: underline;">Validation Study</span>. A process that helps a company get a clear sense of their top performers and their strengths, what distinguishes them, and how to both hire people like your top talent and develop those who are currently on board who have high potential.</p>
<p>Being an inspirational leader means being able to listen, and from that information, engage and develop the talent you have on board. There is truly nothing more important, because if leaders don’t take the time to listen to and recognize their valuable employees, another company surely will.</p>
<p><em>Caliper offers Printing Industries of America members special discounts on all products and services related to hiring and pre-employment assessments, talent and leadership development, and aligning your corporate culture. For more information about discounted pricing, contact Ricardo Roman at 609-524-1224 or email </em><a href="mailto:rroman@calipercorp.com"><em>rroman@calipercorp.com</em></a><em>. Or visit the Caliper Buying Power page at <a href="http://www.printing.org/caliper">www.printing.org/caliper</a>.</em></p>
<p><em>For questions about the National Buying Power Program at Printing Industries of America, please contact Megan Flynn at <a href="mailto:mflynn@printing.org">mflynn@printing.org</a>. </em></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11697#commentsGeneralMember ResourcesTue, 26 Nov 2013 14:32:30 +0000mflynn@printing.org11697 at http://blog.printing.orgA Custom Market Research Case Study: Uncovering Brand Awareness in Digital Printing Technology http://blog.printing.org/blog/11685
<p><img src="/efiles/eweb/images/blog/megan/511_3616296.JPG" alt="" height="510" width="680" /></p>
<p>You have big goals for your company. How much do you know about your customers, your products or services, your competitors, and the market you serve? There’s a high value in big data insights that provide a clearer focus, helping you determine where your company stands and where you need to go. Yet, if you are like the majority of companies, you don’t have professional custom surveying, analyzing, and reporting capabilities in-house. That’s why more and more companies are turning to our <a href="http://www.printing.org/economics">Economic and Market Research</a> department at Printing Industries of America for <a href="http://www.printing.org/marketresearch">custom market research services</a>.</p>
<p>In this market research case study, learn how <a href="http://www.magnersanborn.com/">Magner Sanborn</a>, a full-service advertising and brand design agency, worked one on one with their market research team to find vital solutions for their digital printing client.</p>
<p><strong>Custom Market Research Case Study</strong></p>
<p><strong>Background:</strong> <br /> An industrial commercial press manufacturer had a problem. Their agency, Magner Sanborn, as Ed Gleeson, director, Economic and Market Research described, “wanted to leverage their brand, but first they needed to know where they stood in the market.” Magner Sanborn partnered with the Printing Industries of America Economic and Market Research team to determine the current market awareness of their client’s digital printing technology in the commercial printing industry. The team developed a baseline brand awareness benchmark in each of the major channels of the commercial printing industry to measure the progress of various advertising campaigns over the next twelve months.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Method:</strong> <br /> Magner Sanborn “started the conversation with a well-defined marketing problem and primary study objectives,” Gleeson said. “In most cases we help companies better define their marketing problem and hone in on their research objectives. However, Magner Sanborn came to Printing Industries of America to take advantage of our knowledge of the printing industry. We helped them craft an online survey to collect the necessary intelligence to meet their primary study objectives.” After the data was collected, the team worked with Magner Sanborn to develop the necessary banners and crosstabs to present the findings to their client’s senior management.</p>
<p><strong>Results:</strong> <br /> Magnor Sanborn met their goal to establish a benchmark for brand awareness and consideration for their client. They are now able to measure their progress against these metrics. Their client “is now more motivated to have an active and visible role in 2014—to build the brand and drive sales,” said Jill Hulswit, account supervisor at Magner Sanborn</p>
<p><strong>More insights—</strong><a href="http://www.printing.org/blog/11684">Read the full interview</a> with Jill Hulswit of Manger Sanborn to learn more about how you can leverage custom market research to reach your business goals. Find out how the research team works with you to develop a custom strategy, how data is analyzed, and to what measures they will go to get the job done.</p>
<p>Want to learn more about <a href="http://www.printing.org/marketresearch">Proprietary Print Market Research Services</a>? Just contact Ed Gleeson, director, Economic and Market Research at 800-910-4283, ext. 756 or <a href="mailto:egleeson@printing.org">egleeson@printing.org</a>. <br /> &nbsp;</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11685#commentsGeneralEconomicsTue, 19 Nov 2013 14:52:55 +0000mflynn@printing.org11685 at http://blog.printing.orgA Client Story: Leveraging Custom Market Research to Reach Business Goalshttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11684
<p><img src="/efiles/eweb/images/blog/megan/609_3321478.JPG" alt="" height="452" width="680" /></p>
<p>The latest <a href="http://www.printing.org/blog/11685">Custom Market Research Case Study</a> told how the Printing Industries of America Economic and Market Research team developed, analyzed, troubleshot, and delivered solutions for <a href="http://www.magnersanborn.com/">Magner Sanborn</a>, a full service advertising and brand design agency. Fully aware of the value of big data insights, Magner Sanborn “wanted to leverage their client’s brand, but first they needed to know where they stood in the market,” according to Ed Gleeson, director, Economic and Market Research.</p>
<p>Jill Hulswit can tell you how she and her associates did just that. As account supervisor at Magner Sanborn since 2008, she is responsible for maintaining client relationships and managing projects internally for her company. The goal was to determine the current market awareness of their client’s digital printing technology in the commercial printing industry. Unfamiliar with the industry, they partnered with the Printing Industries of America’s Economic and Market Research team, tapping into their industry expertise to craft a survey relevant to the target market.</p>
<p>What market information did they uncover? How can companies use <a href="http://www.printing.org/marketresearch">custom market research</a> from Printing Industries of America to reach their goals? We asked Ms. Hulswit to share her experience.</p>
<p><strong>Q:</strong> <strong>What was the challenge your company was facing, and what prompted you to contact the Printing Industries of America Economic and Market Research department for a solution?<br /> </strong></p>
<p><strong>Jill Hulswit:</strong> We needed to gauge levels of awareness and interest about a client brand in order to provide guidance for their 2014 marketing activities and a benchmark to measure against in the future. The client’s market is a very niche, hard-to-reach audience: industrial-commercial press manufacturers.&nbsp; We were on a tight timeline and could not identify or purchase reliable lists of OEM contacts. So we contracted Printing Industries of America to help us with development of a respondent list—plus, we leveraged their services and expertise to code and send the survey, manage response, and deliver crosstabs for our final analysis.</p>
<p><strong>Q:</strong> <strong>How did you and your researcher, Ed Gleeson work together from the start of the project?</strong><br /><br /> <strong>JH:</strong> Ed is great. He listened to our needs and the challenges we were facing in this project and helped work through issues with custom solutions. We didn’t have all of the answers at the beginning, because that’s the nature of research—there’s no telling who or how people will respond. But as we ran into hurdles (i.e., super compressed timelines and very low response), Ed worked with us to find solutions and get responses—in some cases, this meant manual work and personally calling qualified respondents. There was never a concern about whether we’d be able to get this job done, it was just a matter of figuring out how. In the end, we got there; Ed delivered enough responses (176) from the right people so that we could provide statistically reliable metrics and analysis to our client.</p>
<p><strong>Q:</strong> <strong>Can you describe how you worked with your researcher throughout the project? And as a company not directly involved with the printing industry, were there any modifications that had to be made?<br /> </strong><br /> <strong>JH:</strong> Ed was very responsive and easy to work with.&nbsp; Our team developed the survey draft, questions, and quotas. But Ed provided recommendations on copy that helped us to be more in line with industry-speak. Plus, we jointly reworked problematic questions to ensure we would be qualifying only the people we needed while disqualifying the rest.</p>
<p>Ed coded, sent, and managed survey responses, so we didn’t have to worry about these elements. He created a digital dashboard of high-level research highlights so we could check in as necessary and provide the client updates throughout the process.</p>
<p>Some of Printing Industries of America’s research processes and forms varied from what we might typically see, but Ed was able to alter his standard protocol and deliver the results we needed, formatted as requested.</p>
<p><strong>Q:</strong> <strong>What was the outcome of the research?</strong></p>
<p><strong>JH:</strong> The project was successful. The goal was to establish a benchmark for brand awareness and consideration so that, moving forward, we can measure our progress against these metrics. It did that. The client is now more motivated to have an active and visible role in 2014—to build the brand and drive sales.</p>
<p><strong>Q: Would you recommend Custom Market Research services from Printing Industries of America to your peers?<br /> </strong></p>
<p><strong>JH:</strong> Absolutely. Reliable research is invaluable. And Printing Industries of America was very helpful, accommodating, and easy to work with.</p>
<p><strong>Q:</strong> <strong>Would you use our services again as a follow-up to this brand awareness project and/or for additional projects?</strong></p>
<p><strong>JH:</strong> Yes. However, as the client continues to expand globally, we’ll have to tap into custom <em>international</em> lists and databases.</p>
<p>Want to learn more about how <a href="http://www.printing.org/marketresearch">Proprietary Print Market Research Service</a> can help you better leverage your brand? Just contact Ed Gleeson, Director, Economic and Market Research at 800-910-4283, ext. 756 or <a href="mailto:egleeson@printing.org">egleeson@printing.org</a>. <br /> &nbsp;</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11684#commentsGeneralEconomicsTue, 19 Nov 2013 14:49:07 +0000mflynn@printing.org11684 at http://blog.printing.orgAvoid These Mistakes when Entering the 2014 Product of Excellence Awardhttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11675
<p>“I wish we would have saved our pieces!” We occasionally hear this exclamation as the <a href="http://www.printing.org/poeawards">BIA Product of Excellence Awards</a> draws nearer (the 2014 entry deadline is <strong>February 21</strong>, in case you were wondering!)</p>
<p>Aside from forgetting to save your year’s best examples of flawless postpress craftsmanship, many of you in binding, finishing, and custom lose-leaf manufacturing have questions about how to submit your entries. So, we have put together seven mistakesthat can bemade when entering the <a href="http://www.printing.org/poeawards"><strong>2014 Product of Excellence Awards</strong></a><strong>—</strong>and how to avoid them.</p>
<p>We can’t wait to see your entries! Here’s hoping your craftsmanship is deemed the “best of the best” in 2014!</p>
<p><strong>#1: Not checking the production date</strong><br /> Only submit pieces produced between February 2013 and February 2014. If they were not produced in this time frame, they are not eligible for entry.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>#2: Choosing the wrong category</strong><br /> Look carefully at the <a href="http://www.printing.org/page/3556"><strong>category</strong></a>descriptions and choose the appropriate subcategory for each piece. This way judges can recognize its best attributes, and you increase your chances of winning. However, judges reserve the right to move an entry to a different category if they feel it better meets the criteria for that category. To help you identify the right category, consider:</p>
<ul>
<li>The equipment used to produce the piece</li>
<li>The type of process used</li>
<li>How the piece is used</li>
</ul>
<p><em>See more on </em><a href="http://www.printing.org/page/3557"><em>rules and judging</em></a><em>.</em></p>
<p><strong>#3: Providing incomplete details</strong><br /> Be sure to complete <em>all</em> information on the entry form. If your product entry forms are not completed thoroughly, they may not qualify for the contest.</p>
<p><strong>#4: Missing submission forms<br /> </strong>Attach an <a href="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/BindingInd/2014_POE_Awards_Entry_Form.pdf">entry form</a> to <em>each piece</em> you submit. Remember to submit two copies of each entry and attach the entry form to one copy. This way, the judges can properly identify your pieces and in which category they belong.</p>
<p><strong>#5: Stapling the entry form to your piece<br /> </strong>When attaching the entry form to your piece, place it inside the piece, use a paper clip, low-adhesive tape, or other non-damaging binding agent. <strong>Please do not staple! </strong>Staplingthe form to your piece can cause imperfections and disqualify it from the competition.</p>
<p><strong>#6: Sending pieces in late</strong><br /> It can take some time and deliberation to choose which pieces to submit. Start early, because the deadline for entries is <strong>February 21, 2014.</strong> In early March, we will begin judging your pieces. If you have any last-minute questions, don’t hesitate to contact Mike Packard, Director, Binding Industries Association, at <a href="mailto:mpackard@printing.org">mpackard@printing.org</a>.</p>
<p><strong>#7: Not entering the Product of Excellence Awards</strong><br /> It may seem like a no-brainer, but if you don’t enter, you can’t win! Honorees get a one-up on the competition because their success is published industry wide. You will not only receive a plaque to display, but also:</p>
<p>-&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Inclusion in press release announcing all winners to the media</p>
<p>-&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Listing in <em>The Binding Edge</em> magazine, garnering a readership of 14,000</p>
<p>-&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Company name and link on <a href="http://www.printing.org/poeawards">www.printing.org/poeawards</a></p>
<p>-&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Recognition in <em>Printing Industries of America: The Magazine</em> sent to industry execs</p>
<p>And, since no great honor is complete without an official ceremony, winners will have the opportunity to stand up and be recognized at the <a href="http://bia14.printing.org/p/">2014 BIA Annual Conference</a> where you can accept congratulations from your peers.</p>
<p><em>Get more details on the </em><a href="http://www.printing.org/poeawards"><em>BIA Product of Excellence Awards</em></a><em>. Remember to enter your best graphic finishing and loose-leaf craftmanship by <strong>February 21, 2014.</strong> Just download the </em><a href="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/BindingInd/2014_POE_Awards_Entry_Form.pdf"><em>entry form</em></a><em> and get started!</em></p>
<p><em>&nbsp;</em></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11675#commentsGeneralConferencesTue, 12 Nov 2013 21:37:59 +0000mflynn@printing.org11675 at http://blog.printing.org3 Core Beliefs Essential for Successful Continuous Improvement http://blog.printing.org/blog/11674
<p>Creating a high-performance culture and an active program of continuous improvement results in better quality, efficiency, and a competitive advantage that’s hard to match. It can also earn you a <a href="http://ci14.printing.org/p/about/managing-for-improvement-award/">2014 Managing for Improvement Award</a>. For Western Graphics, a 50-employee commercial printing company in St. Paul, Minnesota, and its CEO and owner, Timothy Keran, performance excellence is never an afterthought. Its constant striving to get better is what has allowed the company to prosper.</p>
<p>An innovator who has spearheaded his company’s successful CI efforts, Keran was recently honored as the 2013 recipient of Printing Industries of America’s <a href="http://ci14.printing.org/p/about/managing-for-improvement-award/">Managing for Improvement Award</a> for creating real and lasting improvements for Western Graphics.&nbsp;</p>
<p>How can executives lead their companies to higher performance levels? Here are the three core beliefs that Keran has instilled at Western:<em>personal continuous improvement, engagement,</em>and<em>goals and values.</em></p>
<p><strong>1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Look first at your personal continuous improvement efforts.</strong></p>
<p>Keran knows that accomplishing continuous improvement is more than just collecting plaques on your wall. Successful leadership starts from within. He focused on developing himself over the last 20 years in the industry. Then, turning his concentration to his employees and his company values, Keran was able to create a strong culture that incubates positivity and drives the company’s continuous improvement initiatives. For these reasons, Keran was selected as the <a href="http://www.printing.org/page/11629">2013 Managing for Improvement Award recipient.</a> &nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Make sure your employees are engaged.</strong></p>
<p>Western’s employees are motivated to help clients reach their goals and objectives because Keran has ensured they have an active voice in the company. Employees are expected to submit improvement ideas to which management listens carefully. The company wants to know what employees are thinking and keeps them focused on improvement—they receive brief daily performance reviews and quarterly one-on-one coaching conversations with management. For these reasons, if you work for Western Graphics, chances are you enjoy your work and will go above your requirements to truly “own” each project and delight your customers.</p>
<p><strong>3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Make sure your corporate mission, goals, and values are clear.</strong></p>
<p>Defining your company’s mission and values tells your employees and your customers who you are and what they can expect from you. It can empower employees who can be given more decision-making freedom with the caveat that they make decisions consistent with the corporate values.</p>
<p>Western Graphics clearly articulates its responsibilities to its customers:</p>
<p>1) Help them reduce their print spend<br /> 2) Lower their time spent on managing print<br /> 3) Improve their print effectiveness<br /> <br /> These goals have focused Western’s improvement efforts. The application of Lean management practices has helped the company drive wasted time and resources out of its processes. &nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>The results?</strong> Because of their improvements in the last five years, Western Graphics has completed more than 2,000 employee-initiated projects and demonstrated striking improvements in rework, lost-time accidents, and sales per employee. &nbsp;</p>
<p><em>Nominations are now being accepted for the </em><a href="http://ci14.printing.org/p/about/managing-for-improvement-award/"><em>2014 Managing for Improvement Award</em></a><em>. The deadline is </em><strong>February 7, 2014.</strong> <em>Visit the website to learn more about the award and 2013 winner Timothy Keran, CEO and owner, Western Graphics. The winner will be recognized at the </em><a href="http://ci14.printing.org/"><em>2014 Continuous Improvement Conference</em></a><em>, March 30–April 2, in Dallas, TX.</em></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11674#commentsGeneralConferencesTue, 12 Nov 2013 15:47:03 +0000mflynn@printing.org11674 at http://blog.printing.orgSolutions for New Technologies’ Effects on Color Management http://blog.printing.org/blog/11671
<p><em>Interview with Erica Aitken, President, Rods and Cones, Inc.</em></p>
<p>Color workflow innovation is one of <a href="http://cmc.printing.org/speakers/erica-aiken/">Erica Aitken</a>’s main focuses as founder and president of her company, <a href="http://www.rodsandcones.com/">Rods and Cones</a>. We asked Erica, one of our featured speakers at this year’s Color Management Conference, about some of the challenges her clients face with color management today, as well as her insights and recommended solutions.</p>
<p><strong>Q:</strong> Erica, with today’s technologies rapidly changing, our daily workflows are being affected. Where can print and graphic arts professionals find solutions? What are the resources you recommend most often for those beginning their search for the perfect color management system?</p>
<p><strong><em>Erica Aitken:</em></strong><em> I have found webinars to be efficient and very beneficial resources. Workshops and conferences can offer great hands-on experience and networking. But when clients are looking for go-to guidebooks for everything on color management, the </em><a href="https://system.printing.org/index.php?dispatch=products.view&amp;product_id=4046">Color Management Handbook: A Practical Guide</a> is<em> a handy resource for every aspect. The guide is well organized, you can keep it right on your desk, and it’s there when you need it.</em></p>
<p><em>Also Datacolor, whose Spyder monitor calibrating system you may know, publishes a very good book about color management. It’s called </em>Calibrate Your World<em> and is available at no cost on their&nbsp;</em><a href="http://spyder.datacolor.com/color-management-ebook/?utm_source=other&amp;utm_campaign=CORP+-+Website+-+English+-+eBook&amp;utm_medium=Website"><em>website</em></a><em>. This excellent 90-page digital book explains digital color, calibrating cameras and monitors, making ICC profiles, etc. If you’re beginning your search for the perfect color management system, read these booklets and come talk to me at the conference with your questions.</em></p>
<p><strong>Q:</strong> You’ll be speaking at the 2013 Color Management Conference about one major challenge expanding technology has created: color management on tablet devices. Can you give us one tip to improve customer proofing on tablets?</p>
<p><strong><em>EA:</em></strong><em> With pleasure. I found that color managing iPads is still very much in its infancy and, as it’s often the case in very young industries, people try to find the right approach to something that they’re not even sure is needed. I will outline what’s available today and how effective today’s&nbsp;existing&nbsp;iPad color management solutions are.</em></p>
<p><strong>Q:</strong> You help your clients evolve with new technologies and optimize their color workflow.&nbsp; You’ve worked in-depth with streamlining and automating workflows in addition to marketing and developing your business. As an industry professional, what are you most looking forward to at this year’s conference?</p>
<p><strong><em>EA:</em></strong><em> What excites me the most about this year’s Color Management Conference is the introduction of tracks geared toward brand managers and creatives. It makes sense since color is critical from beginning to end, and it’s easier to control color if it’s considered right at the start of a project. The most efficient workflows are the result of communication between creator and prepress/printer at every stage of a job.</em></p>
<p>Learn more about the <a href="http://www.printing.org/color">2013 Color Management Conference</a>, December 7–10, Arizona Biltmore, Phoenix, and <a href="http://cmc.printing.org/speakers/erica-aiken/">Erica Aitken’s session</a>, <strong>The Scoop on Color Managing Tablet Devices.</strong></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11671#commentsGeneralConferencesWed, 06 Nov 2013 19:19:05 +0000mflynn@printing.org11671 at http://blog.printing.orgHow Printers Are Keeping Up with Color Management Tech http://blog.printing.org/blog/11670
<p>We’re all trying to adjust to color standards updates, new automated workflow systems, and a steady flow of emerging technologies. Everyone in the workflow is responsible for ensuring that the color of a printed piece is accurate and consistent all the way from concept to customer.</p>
<p>If you’re like Elizabeth Nolden, a production manager at Sign-Zone, Inc., you are looking to stay competitive in today’s market and find the latest information on color technologies and trends. As a long-time attendee of the Color Management Conference, we asked her how this particular event helps her stay fresh in her career.</p>
<p><strong>Q:</strong> As a printer aiming to stay up-to-date on color management tech, why is <em>this</em> conference unique in the industry, and why is it important for workflow and production?</p>
<p><strong><em>Elizabeth Nolden:</em></strong><em> This conference is unique in a sense that it gathers all print professionals together to talk about one issue they can all relate to, color. Whether you’re a designer at an ad agency or a print operator, offset or wide format, we all deal with color. This year’s conference in particular is geared toward brand management through the entire process. It will also be uniquely structured from previous years. I’m excited to see where it takes us.</em></p>
<p><strong>Q:</strong> What can attendees expect to learn and how can they prepare to get the most out of the conference when they come?</p>
<p><strong><em>EN:</em></strong><em> My recommendation would be to look at the schedule early and plan your path ahead of time. The conference is segmented out for different levels of expertise. Make sure you’re attending the sessions you’ll get the most out of. Attendees can expect to learn a lot of technical pieces of print, but also some good tips and tricks to increase your productivity.</em></p>
<p><strong>Q:</strong> What can production professionals, who need to learn to speak the language of brand managers, designers, and standards experts, expect to get out of it?</p>
<p><strong><em>EN:</em></strong><em> It’s important for production professionals to understand all aspects of print, including design and brand management. With the collaboration effort of this conference and wide variety of attendees it’s a great opportunity for everyone to speak the same language to reduce communication gaps.</em></p>
<p><strong>Q:</strong> What do you personally learn when you attend the conference, and how has this event helped you keep up to date on color tech, standards, and specifications?</p>
<p><strong><em>EN:</em></strong><em> I can always count on learning something new at this conference. As a print professional, it’s always helpful to keep track of all standards, but also to learn where the industry is going, not just where our little niche is. It’s also a great opportunity to network with other print professionals.</em></p>
<p><strong>Q:</strong> What sessions are you most looking forward to?</p>
<p><br /> <strong><em>EN:</em></strong><em> I am most looking forward to the keynote speakers. I’m always interested in hearing how the key players in this industry deal with the very same issues I’m dealing with.</em></p>
<p>Learn more about the 2013 Color Management Conference, December 7–10, by visiting <a href="http://www.printing.org/color">www.printing.org/color</a>.</p>
<p><strong>&nbsp;</strong></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11670#commentsGeneralConferencesWed, 06 Nov 2013 19:10:53 +0000mflynn@printing.org11670 at http://blog.printing.org3 Finance Goals to Step Up Your Profit Game http://blog.printing.org/blog/11665
<p><em>Even when dealing with top-line challenges with help from the </em><a href="http://www.printing.org/pife"><em>Printing Industry Financial Executives (PIFE)</em></a><em> group and other professional resources, firms can still greatly improve profitability. How do you step up </em>your<em> game? In this article, adapted from “Boosting Your Bottom Line” by Dr. Ronnie H. Davis, Senior Vice President and Chief Economist, Printing Industries of America, learn how to improve your financial performance from the bottom line up.</em></p>
<p>How’s your company ranking on the profitability playing field? If you’re looking to boost your firm’s bottom line and gain competitive advantage, <strong>sales, cost, </strong>and<strong> pricing</strong> have the biggest impact on performance and profitability. The 2013 <em>Ratios</em> survey showed a major financial performance gap between profit leaders and the industry average. For you, this indicates there are many opportunities for increasing profits!</p>
<p>So how do you bridge the gap from the “have-nots” to the “haves”? Step up your three key functions: sales, cost, and pricing. Here is some helpful advice you can apply to your firm:</p>
<ol>
<li><strong>Increase sales: Add to your top line</strong><br /> - Specialize by focusing on particular segments<br /> - Diversify by providing more value-added services<br /> - Gain process advantage using hybrid printing—its growing at a fast rate!<br /> - Offer ancillary services along with print, like Web-to-print and fulfillment</li>
<li><strong>Lower Your Costs: Benchmark <br /> </strong>- Benchmark costs with industry metrics<br /> - Shift fixed to variable costs by reducing overhead and using part-time and temporary employees<br /> - Substitute capital for labor by investing in employee development</li>
<li><strong>Improve Your Pricing: Compete <em>for</em> price, not <em>on</em> price</strong><br /> - Specialize to reduce competition and allow pricing leverage<br /> - Develop strong branding and target customer awareness<br /> - Follow demand-driven rather than cost driven pricing<br /> - Provide sales comp incentives</li>
</ol>
<p>Want to learn more and connect with other printing industry financial leaders? Come to the <strong>2014 PIFE Conference, </strong>March 30–April 1, 2014, at The Fairmont Dallas Hotel, Dallas, TX. Information about the event will be available soon.</p>
<p><em>Find the complete article from Dr. Davis in the October 2013 issue of from </em><a href="http://www.printing.org/page/4507"><em>Printing Industries of America: The Magazine</em></a><em> under </em><a href="http://www.printing.org/page/4508"><em>Archives: The Magazine</em></a><em>(Member login required.). </em></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11665#commentsGeneralEconomicsThu, 31 Oct 2013 18:51:58 +0000mflynn@printing.org11665 at http://blog.printing.orgMeet the Solutions Provider for Predictable Color http://blog.printing.org/blog/11663
<p><em>The following is an interview with Dave Dezzutti, Technology and Research Analyst, Center for Technology and Research, at Printing Industries of America.</em></p>
<p>How confident are you that every job your company produces will render spot-on color (if 1 is “not a chance!” and 10 is “we’re color masters!”)? If you’re like most companies, you’re probably somewhere in the middle. According to past customers, the solutions our expert <a href="http://www.printing.org/node/2933">consultants</a> provide directly raise their confidence in producing predictable color. In addition to color management, more than a dozen full-time and external consultants serve members and the industry in a variety of areas. <em>(Read the interview with </em><a href="http://blog.printing.org/blog/11523"><em>digital and offset consultant Keith Whistler</em></a><em>.)</em></p>
<p>As a consultant with the <a href="http://www.printing.org/ctr">Center for Technology and Research</a> since 2011, <a href="http://www.printing.org/daviddezzutti">Dave Dezzutti</a>, who’s also a G7® Certified Expert and trainer, explains how he has helped many companies both on site and off with their color management issues.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Q: What is your background in this field that has enabled you to become a successful consultant?</strong><br /> Dave: I have been very fortunate in my career to have worked in a production capacity with a wide variety of equipment and procedures. Ultimately this helps me assess a company’s current situation and provide them with a road map to follow in the future. This information will assist them in being more productive, with less waste, and gain a sense of predictability with regard to quality and consistency.</p>
<p><strong>Q: What is your current role with our consulting team?</strong><br /> <strong>Dave:</strong> My focus is on color management. With hands-on experience with three different workflow systems, nine RIPs, two CTP systems, and a variety of digital equipment, my G7® Expert certification permits me to consult at printing companies and qualify them to become G7® Master facilities.</p>
<p><strong>Q: What are some of the highlights from your consulting experiences?</strong><br /> <strong>Dave:</strong> I get a wide perspective on current issues our industry is facing. For instance, I am still somewhat surprised at the lack of process controls at some companies. Color management will only work continuously providing there is a process controls implementation in place.</p>
<p><strong>Q: How do you help companies find solutions?</strong><br /> <strong>Dave:</strong> As a third-party observer, some problems are easily exposed. People, by nature, are so ingrained in what they are producing that they sometimes lose track of procedures, like those in process controls, which enable them to catch errors in the production stream. By methodically assessing each step of the process, issues will inevitably surface, and I can recommend a corrective action.</p>
<p><strong>Q: What is the most rewarding part of your job?</strong><br /> <strong>Dave:</strong> There is no greater feeling than when an owner says at the end of a consulting assignment, that they have never had this kind of confidence before about the consistence and predictability of their color reproduction.</p>
<p><em>Dave is also a featured speaker at the </em><a href="http://www.printing.org/color"><em>2013 Color Management Conference</em></a><em>, December 7–10, in Phoenix, AZ.</em></p>
<p><strong>More Resources:</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.printing.org/ctr">Center for Technology and Research</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.printing.org/page/9568">Consulting and Training</a></p>
<p><a href="http://training.printing.org/node/6696">Custom Training</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.printing.org/color">2013 Color Management Conference</a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11663#commentsGeneralConferencesTue, 29 Oct 2013 13:52:49 +0000mflynn@printing.org11663 at http://blog.printing.org10 Ways to Differentiate Your Brand with Cool Varnishes, Inks, and Substrateshttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11659
<p><em>This article was contributed by Dr. Mark Bohan, vice president, Technology and Research, Printing Industries of America, who is presenting “Jazzing Up Your Brand with Cool Varnishes, Inks, and Substrates” at the </em><a href="http://www.printing.org/color"><em>2013 Color Management Conference</em></a><em>, December 7–10, in Phoenix, AZ.</em></p>
<p>The communications industry today is highly competitive with different message forms used to communicate with customers from mass media and electronic communications to printed material. In recent years we’ve seen many new technological developments to enhance the impact of printed material visually, as well as addressing our other senses, like touch and smell. &nbsp;These developments also allow print to interact with electronic devices.</p>
<p>With these new approaches, brands and companies can differentiate their products to increase customer awareness and satisfaction. I have the great pleasure of witnessing many of these new technologies in product demonstrations, trade shows, open houses, and from visits to printers using the different solutions. I look forward to sharing these findings with you in this session at the 2013 Color Management Conference this December in Phoenix, AZ.</p>
<p>Here is a list of ten different technologies* your company can use to differentiate your product:</p>
<ol>
<li><strong>Raised coatings</strong><a title="MGI (raised coating)" href="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/raised.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="border: 1px solid black; margin-left: 7px; margin-right: 7px; float: right;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/raised.jpg" alt="MGI (raised coating)" height="106" width="180" /></a><br />Produced inline on an offset or digital printing press, raised coatings create textures that can be from one micron to well in excess 100. New solutions offline allow great register to the pre-printed product and can introduce secondary sparkling or metallic effects, for instance.</li>
<li><strong>Lenticular printing</strong><br />Introduce depth and movement with images produced on lenticular lenses. Interlace the images and print using many different print processes.</li>
<li><strong>Metallic effects</strong><br /><a title="Color Logic (metallic effects)" href="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/Color-Logic.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="border: 1px solid black; margin-left: 7px; margin-right: 7px; float: right;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/Color-Logic.jpg" alt="Color Logic (metallic effects)" height="158" width="100" /></a>Make the print shiny, be it through the use of metallic inks, substrates, or the introduction of foiling in the production. This can easily be designed and visualized to go mainstream.</li>
<li><strong>Scented coating</strong><br />Mimic the smell of the product or location with scents in either a coating or ink. Whatever your desire, there will be the scents available to use!</li>
<li><strong>3D texture with inkjet</strong><br />Build up a 3D image using flatbed inkjet, create a wood-paneling effect, reproduce an old master, or create highly personalized wall coverings.</li>
<li><strong>Reticulated coatings</strong><br />Create that special look by using coatings that do not fully flow on the substrate producing a textured feel to the coated area.</li>
<li><strong>Thermochromic inks</strong><br />The temperature changes and so does the color—have your drink tell you when it’s ice cold!</li>
<li><strong>Laser diecutting</strong><br />Using lasers to create individualized patterns in printed sheets, these can vaporize the substrate to provide great detail and impact.</li>
<li><strong>Inks for thermoforming</strong><a title="EFI (inks for thermoforming)" href="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/Thromoforming.png" target="_blank"><img style="margin-left: 7px; margin-right: 7px; float: right; border: 1px solid black;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/Thromoforming.png" alt="EFI (inks for thermoforming)" height="120" width="180" /></a><br />Print it on a flat surface and then use thermoforming to create three-dimensional items in many different run lengths—personalize each of the items with digital.</li>
<li><strong>Fluorescent coatings and inks</strong><br />Either as a spot or flood, this will fluoresce under different lighting conditions; it could be for security of a ticket or to make the customer feel special! <br />And finally, by adding additional components it is possible to add value to the customer, just one of many possible examples would be …<br /><br /></li>
<li><strong>Near-field communication</strong><br />Printed materials interact with electronic communication tools, such as a smartphone, for items such as smart posters and packaging.</li>
</ol>
<p>I invite you to come to the Color Management Conference and get a great opportunity to see and evaluate the different solutions and techniques available—it is sure to excite! For details, just visit <a href="http://www.printing.org/color">www.printing.org/color</a>.</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11659#commentsGeneralConferencesFri, 25 Oct 2013 20:06:52 +0000kiorio@printing.org11659 at http://blog.printing.org10 Steps to Successful Lithographic Dampeninghttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11653
<p>On an offset press, every minute of downtime equals money lost. Being proactive with proper press maintenance—from blankets to roller settings to dampening systems––is the key to efficiency and profitability in your pressroom.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.printing.org/staff/5228">Greg Workman</a>, Technical Consultant/Pressroom and Bindery Supervisor, brings 34 years of industry experience to teach—both through classroom and hands-on training—tactical techniques for proper maintenance, troubleshooting, and efficiency in Extreme Offset: Troubleshoot, Control, Optimize. Here, Greg shares10 steps to achieve successful lithographic dampening:</p>
<ol>
<li><strong><em>Give </em></strong>a sample of your water to your dampening solution manufacturer for analysis. This sample will provide information for selecting the correct dampening solution and alcohol substitute chemistry for your dampening system and your plant’s water characteristics.</li>
<li><strong><em>Discuss </em></strong>your printing operation with your chemical supplier. Be specific about press models, dampening systems, inks, roller washes, blanket washes, and types of paper to make sure that they are totally compatible.</li>
<li><strong><em>Check </em></strong>dampening roller pressure settings and durometer readings. This should include inking and dampening form rollers. Make sure plate-to-blanket pressure is also set properly.</li>
<li><strong><em>Follow </em></strong>the manufacturer’s mixing instructions. If the instructions recommend mixing between 3 and 8 oz. of solution with each gallon of water, start with the minimum of 3 oz. Take a pH/conductivity reading and record the information as a starting point reference.</li>
<li><strong><em>Run </em></strong>this mixture of dampening solution and monitor its printability. For example, how does the plate roll up? How does the press start up after feeder trips? Does the plate run clean and open without feeding excess amounts of dampening solution? Communicate this information back to the dampening solution manufacturer.</li>
<li><strong><em>Observe </em></strong>the scum line.Whenin perfect ink-and-water balance, an ink scum line will form on the lead edge of the plate. It will be thin and even (visually about the width of a lead pencil line) spanning from the operator’s side to the gear side of the press. Check it often. When the line disappears, the dampening water setting is too high. When the scum line thickens, the dampening water setting is too low.</li>
<li><strong><em>Check </em></strong>your dampening solution regularly. Paper coating, ink bleed, and blanket and roller cleaners can contaminate dampening solution. Take temperature, pH, and conductivity readings after every three hours of press operation. Record these readings in the press logbook. Keep the solution at the mixture you have found works best.</li>
<li><strong><em>Observe </em></strong>the changes in pH and conductivity as the pressrun continues. When they reach a point where printing problems begin, such as plugging or scumming, the dampening solution is probably contaminated. Record your finding in the press logbook and mix a fresh batch of solution.</li>
<li><strong><em>Drain and clean </em></strong>your dampening system weekly.</li>
<li><strong><em>Check and service </em></strong>the refrigeration system on your water circulation systems regularly (after 1,000 hours of operation). This should be performed by a qualified technician. Proper cooling of fountain solution helps to control the viscosity of the fountain solution.</li>
</ol>
<p>Find these tips useful? Learn even more at the <a href="http://training.printing.org/page/11110">Extreme Offset: Troubleshoot, Control, Optimize</a>&nbsp;workshop <strong>November 5–7, 2013</strong>, at our headquarters near <strong>Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania</strong><strong>.</strong> <em>This is the FINAL time this course will be offered in 2013!<br /> <br /> </em></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11653#commentsGeneralTraining/EducationTue, 22 Oct 2013 20:39:33 +0000mflynn@printing.org11653 at http://blog.printing.orgTop 5 UNIQUE Reasons to Attend the 2013 Color Management Conferencehttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11646
<p>You have probably heard by now that the <a href="http://www.printing.org/color">2013 Color Management Conference</a>, December 7–10, in Phoenix is the event of the year for the latest on achieving predictable brand color. By attending this event, you will have access to the latest in cutting-edge technologies and techniques that can help you build profits. &nbsp;</p>
<p>We want to share some of the benefits you may not have heard that really make this event the icing on the cake of 2013! Here are the top 5 unique reasons why you should be in Phoenix for the Color Management Conference:</p>
<p><strong>#1 Real-World Color Success Stories</strong></p>
<p>Hear from big brand names like Kimberly-Clark, Kohl’s, and American Airlines as representatives discuss managing brand color across diverse media and when it might make sense to offload the responsibility for color management and ultimately a brand’s color integrity to a third-party organization. </p>
<p><strong>#2 Renowned Players</strong></p>
<p>Big names like Russell Brown! Sven Seger! Dr. Taz Tally!<br /> Russell Brown brings his Russell Brown Show to the Color Management Conference with, <a href="http://cmc.printing.org/speakers/russell-brown/"><em>The Russell Brown Show: Live!</em></a> You don’t want to miss this Emmy-award winner go on the journey through the history of Adobe Photoshop while providing tips and tricks for Photoshop users of any skill level. <br /> <a href="http://cmc.printing.org/speakers/sven-seger-2/">Sven Seger</a>, Chief Creative Officer, North America, FutureBrand, takes attendees on a ride discussing the rebranding of the iconic logo for American Airlines. “Finding ways to modernize the brand, while tying its iconic heritage to its human qualities, was a challenging process,” says Seger. You don’t want to miss this though-provoking session.&nbsp; <br /> And don’t miss the pre-conference session with &nbsp;<a href="http://cmc.printing.org/speakers/taz-tally/">Dr. Taz Tally</a>, who’s unique in his own right! He’s a world-renowned photographer, author, consultant, and instructor. This adventure seeker lives life to the fullest in Alaska, often traveling to ski in Utah and whale watch in Hawaii. Discover more adventure with Dr. Tally in his pre-conference photography shoot against a dazzling desert backdrop.</p>
<p><strong>#3 Information for All</strong><br /> This conference’s three tracks—for designers and brand managers, print production folks, and standards experts (affectionately known as color “geeks”)— focus on specific needs in the color workflow. But did you know attendees can choose sessions from <em>any</em> of these tracks? So if you’re in production, feel free to jump on the Geek Track and learn about the latest ISO 12647 and 15339 standards updates. You’re a brand manager? Join a Production session on new proofing tech. It’s a virtual buffet of knowledge, so why not look at the <a href="http://cmc.printing.org/sessions-and-descriptions/">Session Descriptions</a> and create your own perfect conference for maximum ROI!</p>
<p><strong>#4 Hands-On Labs</strong><br /> With the nine labs being presented at the Color Management Conference, attendees will get a hands-on experience with the latest in technology and techniques any color enthusiast would need. Labs cover PDF and Acrobat (presented by Adobe Systems Incorporated’s own <a href="http://cmc.printing.org/speakers/dov-isaacs/">Dov Issacs</a>) to Proofing and Digital Press Output to G7.</p>
<p><strong>#5 Location, Location, Location!<br /> </strong>Our venue, <a href="http://cmc.printing.org/venuetravel/">The Arizona Biltmore</a> in Phoenix, AZ, is nothing short of spectacular thanks to luxurious interiors and picturesque desert surroundings, which is where the Pre-conference lab, <em>Update Your Photography and Color Correction Workflow with Lightroom and Photoshop: Capture, Critique and Color Correct High-quality Images</em> with Dr. Taz Tally takes place.</p>
<p>Don’t miss out on the 2013 Color Management Conference, <strong>December 7–10</strong>. Visit our website for more information and to register at www.printing.org/color. To learn more about getting accurate, predictable color, see the <a href="http://cmc.printing.org/blog/">Color Management Conference blog</a>.</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11646#commentsGeneralConferencesWed, 16 Oct 2013 20:08:49 +0000mflynn@printing.org11646 at http://blog.printing.orgHow the 2013–2014 Ratios Helps Printers Reach “Profit Leader” Status http://blog.printing.org/blog/11644
<p>The industry’s “Profit Leaders” represent firms in the top 25% of profitability. So what’s their secret? What are they doing that the other 75% are not?</p>
<p>They’re using Printing Industries of America’s <em>Ratios</em> reports to benchmark their business, learning where they can improve efficiency and productivity. And the result is higher profits. Here’s how you can do the same with the <a href="http://www.printing.org/ratios"><em>2013–2014 Ratios</em></a><em>.</em></p>
<p><strong>Ask Strategic Questions</strong></p>
<p>The new <a href="http://www.printing.org/ratios"><em>2013–2014 Ratios</em></a>, whichshows that printing industry profits are finally increasing,collates key market data to pinpoint <em>strategic</em> business areas to focus on. Profit leaders use the reports as an efficient way to benchmark and get a pulse on important areas of operations, like <strong>profitability</strong> and <strong>sales factors</strong>, <strong>cost drivers</strong>, and <strong>expenses</strong>. How can your company use <em>Ratios</em> to find areas for improvement? Take a look at your numbers and compare them to the industry average and profit leaders. Get a better and faster understanding of where they are and where they should be!</p>
<p>Here are some examples of the right questions the <em>Ratios</em> helps identify to assess your operations:</p>
<ul>
<li><em>What are your <strong>factory </strong>and<strong> administrative expenses</strong> and how do they compare to your competitors? </em></li>
<li><em>Does your <strong>percentage of payroll</strong> and <strong>materials expenses</strong> match industry averages?</em></li>
<li><em>How do your <strong>sales per employee</strong> compare to profit leaders?</em></li>
<li><em>Is your average <strong>employee wage</strong> competitive within the industry?</em></li>
</ul>
<p><em>(Get a peek at some of the </em><a href="http://www.printing.org/news/11519"><em>latest </em>Ratios<em> results</em></a><em> here!)</em></p>
<p><strong>See the Big Picture</strong></p>
<p>Profit leaders understand the financial position of their business within the market. The<em> Ratios</em> reports provide a compilation of in-depth financial data from hundreds of our industry’s profit leaders. This data is generated from a yearly industry-wide survey of <strong>more than 500 Printing Industries of America member and non-member printing firms</strong> conducted by our Economic and Market Research department. Each of the 16 volumes focuses on a specific industry segment, spanning every major industry sector<em>.</em></p>
<p>All this data amounts to a complete look at the industry—where we are, where we’re going, market trends, and much more. It provides management both a microscopic view of the top business priorities, and then expands that view to reveal how your company’s performance fits in with the profit leaders and the rest of the industry firms.</p>
<p><strong><em>Hot Off the Press!</em></strong><em> We’ve just released the </em>2013–2014 Ratios.<em> Learn more about Printing Industries of America’s </em><a href="http://www.printing.org/ratios">Ratios<em> program</em></a><em> and browse all 16 volumes available at </em><a href="http://www.printing.org/2013-14ratios"><em>www.printing.org/2013-14ratios</em></a><em>. </em></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11644#commentsGeneralEconomicsTue, 15 Oct 2013 13:19:31 +0000mflynn@printing.org11644 at http://blog.printing.orgSolving Your Biggest EHS Issues from Safety to Sustainability: We have the Answers!http://blog.printing.org/blog/11638
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Is your company in compliance with EPA and OSHA regulations, including employee Hazard Communication training required by December 1, 2013? Are you meeting your customers’ demands for sustainable printing and following the Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) Green Guides for marketing claims?</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">There are many printing operations unaware of their basic environmental and safety requirements, which can lead to thousands of dollars in fines! Making general environmental claims has become much more difficult, and the FTC has taken enforcement actions against companies that are not following their new guides. &nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Your best bet is to learn and understand your risk and be proactive. The <a href="http://www.printing.org/ehs">Environmental, Health, and Safety</a> (EHS) department at Printing Industries of America is committed to helping our industry members stay in compliance and improve their operations. This renowned <a href="http://www.printing.org/page/5575">EHS team of experts</a> provides training and consulting for many printing operations, assisting them with understanding and meeting compliance requirements, as well as uncovering opportunities to save money. Plus, since they work with federal and state agencies on the actual rules representing the interests of the printing industry, they know the regulations and can provide concrete advice on how to avoid high fines and other devastating blows to your business.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><strong>Focusing on Your Top Issues</strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">To avoid risking expensive resources and business, you need to ensure your company maintains regulatory compliance, and the EHS staff is here to help. To give you an idea of what kind of issues they resolve, here are some common EHS dilemmas they can assist you with:*</span></p>
<p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><em>1. What type of air permit do you need to run sheetfed or digital presses?</em></span></p>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Regardless of the type of press being operated, air pollutants are emitted as a result of the inks, coatings, fountain solutions, and cleaning solutions. All printing presses and printing operations can emit air pollutants which may require air pollution control permits. Every state/local permitting authority has a permit threshold, and they can be based on emissions, material use, or press size. For assistance in determining air emissions from your operation, contact the EHS department today!</span></li>
</ul>
<p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><em>2. Why does OSHA require older equipment to be guarded to current standards?</em></span></p>
<ul>
<li>Older equipment has never been “grandfathered” by OSHA. Under the OSHA guarding regulations, all equipment, regardless of when it was built, must have all hazard areas properly guarded. It is not the responsibility of the equipment manufacturer to ensure that equipment meets OSHA’s machine guarding standards. For more information on machine guarding requirements, review our&nbsp;<a href="https://mail.printing.org/owa/redir.aspx?C=Z6i0xxTpuUuZdXxIxk4uxPAeC0L7odAIk14g9jgtSjYSJCi9IEtBEWLg3MOTLjnPz-Wmw7GAVRk.&amp;URL=http%3a%2f%2fwww.printing.org%2fpage%2f6367" target="_blank">OSHA Primer</a>(free to members) and&nbsp;<a href="https://mail.printing.org/owa/redir.aspx?C=Z6i0xxTpuUuZdXxIxk4uxPAeC0L7odAIk14g9jgtSjYSJCi9IEtBEWLg3MOTLjnPz-Wmw7GAVRk.&amp;URL=https%3a%2f%2fsystem.printing.org%2findex.php%3fdispatch%3dproducts2.view%26product_id%3d1075" target="_blank">What you Need to Know for Safe Equipment Operation Guide</a>.</li>
</ul>
<p style="padding-left: 60px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><em>3. What are the requirements for making “green and sustainability” claims?</em></span></p>
<ul>
<li>Being “green and sustainable” is more than a single action or only promoting and using recycled paper. Sustainability means that the entire facility, operations, processes, personnel, and products are being touched by environmentally sound practices and policies. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has specific guidelines for making environmental claims. General environmental benefit claims need to be specific and backed up by quantifiable information and the use of certifications and seals must be backed up with information on how a company qualifies. The Green Guides also specify requirements for particular environmental claims, including recyclability, renewable energy use, and ozone-friendly product claims. For more information check out the <a href="http://www.ftc.gov/opa/2012/10/greenguides.shtm">FTC’s Green Guides</a> and our article <a href="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/environment/Greenwashing(June-Magazine-Article).pdf">Greenwashing: Combatting Its Effect On The Printing Industry </a>written by Printing Industries of America staff.</li>
</ul>
<p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><em>4. What are the new training and labeling requirements of OSHA’s revised Hazard Communication standard?</em></span></p>
<p><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"></span></p>
<ul>
<li>The new Hazard Communication standard requires that all hazard chemical labels include the use of Product Identifier, Signal Word (such as DANGER), Hazard Statement, Pictogram, Precautionary Statement, and manufacturer contact information. Printing operations must update hazard communication programs and conduct employee training to reflect the new changes. The first deadline for initial employee training is <strong>December 1, 2013</strong>. Visit our <a href="http://www.printing.org/hazcom">http://www.printing.org/hazcom</a>webpage for more information on the new Standard and guidance for meeting the new requirements (<em>member login required</em>). There are also new <a href="http://www.printing.org/page/9142">Safety, Know It! Live It! posters</a> to display these guidelines (free for members).</li>
</ul>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Don’t worry. You’re not alone if you don’t know all the answers. The important thing is, <em>they do</em>, and they can help your company using a number of available resources. You’ll learn exactly what you need to solidify your operation and save money.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><strong>Solutions at Hand</strong></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">Find solutions through a variety of resources from our EHS department. Learn how this team negotiates directly with government agencies and obtains regulatory interpretations. For information on all EHS resources, including <a href="http://www.printing.org/compliance">compliance assessment</a>, <a href="http://www.printing.org/ehsconsulting">consulting</a>, and custom onsite and offsite <a href="http://www.printing.org/ehstraining">training</a>, just visit the <a href="http://www.printing.org/ehs">EHS</a> webpage.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;">For additional information on these common questions, or any regulatory or sustainability-related inquiries, just visit the <a href="http://www.printing.org/ehs">EHS</a> webpage or contact the Environmental, Health, and Safety (EHS) Department at Printing Industries of America by calling 800-910-4283 ext. 794 or email <a href="mailto:EHS@printing.org">EHS@printing.org</a>.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><strong><em>*Answers to these questions will be revealed each Monday starting October 14!</em></strong></span></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11638#commentsGeneralGreen and SustainabilityMon, 07 Oct 2013 15:47:38 +0000mflynn@printing.org11638 at http://blog.printing.orgA PGSF Success Story: How One Former Recipient Found Industry Success http://blog.printing.org/blog/11631
<p>It’s a positive sight to see all of the <a href="http://www.printing.org/page/11529">2013-14 Print and Graphic Scholarship (PGSF) recipients</a>, and we wish them the best of luck in their education and future careers! Did you know that since 1956 recipients like them have been making significant impacts as industry professionals? And <a href="http://www.printing.org/node/3273">PGSF</a> is still pushing forward to give more print and graphic arts students an education upon which they can build thriving careers.</p>
<p>We caught up with <strong><a href="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/JoeSchemberHeadshot.jpg">Joseph Schember</a> of Mohawk Paper, </strong>a former PGSF Scholarship recipient who’s just joined the new <a href="http://www.printing.org/news/11628">PGSF Board of Directors</a>. Here he talks about his experience as a student recipient and now as an accomplished industry professional. Joe was excited to share his story and eager to leverage his new role as a board member to give back to PGSF, which he credits as the platform for his success. From where he sits in his big office at Mohawk today, he still expresses his gratitude to PGSF and its drive to help students go from the classroom to the pressroom, boardroom, or wherever opportunity lies.</p>
<p><strong>Q: Tell us about your current work in the graphic arts industry and what you’ve accomplished since graduation.</strong></p>
<p><strong>Joseph Schember:</strong> I have been with Mohawk Paper for the last 2½ years as Specialty Digital Product Manager. I assess our clients’ needs and how we can help them make high-value products using their digital equipment by using premium substrates. I enjoy my work here at Mohawk and respect how the company has expanded over the last 80 years and expanded their brand around products for the rapidly growing digital printing market.</p>
<p>Before Mohawk, I was with Canon USA doing product marketing of the Canon Color imagePRESS family of digital presses after graduating from Rochester Institute of Technology. Working with two different suppliers allowed me to see the market as a whole—while with Canon, I would help printers by selling them needed equipment; now with Mohawk, I’m talking to those same printers, but this time I’m showing them ways to leverage their digital printing equipment to produce premium customer applications on high-value substrates. It’s given me a round perspective of their operations and how they work together—finding out where the opportunities are for them to make money.</p>
<p><strong>Q: How did PGSF support your career?</strong></p>
<p><strong>JS:</strong> PGSF supplies financial benefits, of course, but there are many other ways they’ve helped me get to where I am. I got involved in the industry immediately through networking. We (PGSF Scholarship recipients) are encouraged to write a letter to a different donor or sponsor for each year we are in the scholarship program updating them on what we’re learning. These contacts are from all across the industry, so I became more aware of different companies and jobs, and they encouraged me to look at all the opportunities. Although I studied Graphic Media Publishing at RIT, I saw many other fields that interested me.</p>
<p>Being a PGSF recipient is also a fantastic resume builder. It helped me get my first job!</p>
<p><strong>Q: What did it mean to you to win a PGSF Scholarship?</strong></p>
<p><strong>JS:</strong> I am very appreciative of all the support PGSF has provided me and other students. It instills a sense of pride and confidence that I was chosen for this honor. I feel the program helped me stay motivated and disciplined, since I had to keep my grades up at RIT to be eligible for the yearly scholarship.&nbsp;</p>
<p>I am excited to continue my involvement with PGSF. This year at PRINT 13 it really came full circle when I was asked to join the <a href="http://www.printing.org/page/11622">2013 PGSF Board of Directors</a>. I see this as my opportunity to give back to a program that helped shape my career.</p>
<p><strong>Q: Why is it important for you and others to give back to PGSF?</strong></p>
<p>JS: Giving back to PGSF is giving to the future of the graphic arts. Most people in the industry are aware, but I also know from my own experience, that PGSF is dedicated to graphic arts students. Their reputation is unmatched. They support students financially, educationally, and professionally through motivation, networking opportunities, and as a way to get your foot in the door of our industry!</p>
<p>I believe in their mission and readily accepted their invitation to join the 2013 PGSF Board because I want them to be successful in helping other students like they helped me. The program’s continued success is reliant on supporters like us to give back and help provide an education for students and future industry professionals.</p>
<p><strong>Are <em>YOU</em> a former PGSF recipient? To share your PGSF Success Story, contact Bernie Eckert at </strong><a href="mailto:beckert@printing.org"><strong>beckert@printing.org</strong></a><strong>. </strong></p>
<p><em>You can also chat with others in the PGSF community and see all the latest updates on the </em><a href="https://www.facebook.com/printscholarships"><em>PGSF Facebook page</em></a><em>.</em></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11631#commentsGeneralMember ResourcesTue, 01 Oct 2013 13:34:28 +0000mflynn@printing.org11631 at http://blog.printing.orgQuality Management . . . for Education?http://blog.printing.org/blog/11623
<p><em>The following is a guest blog from Daniel G. Wilson. In addition to being author of </em><a href="https://system.printing.org/index.php?dispatch=products2.view&amp;product_id=7248">The New PrintScape: A Crash Course in Graphic Communications</a><em>, he is a professor in the Department of Technology and coordinator of the Graphic Communications degree program at Illinois State University.&nbsp;</em></p>
<p>There is a growing trend toward an environment of accountability in higher education today.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Current U.S. Secretary of Education Arnie Duncan is proposing that federal dollars be linked to college program “quality.”&nbsp;Early in 2006, U.S. Secretary of Education Margaret Spellings issued “A Test of Leadership: Charting the Future of U.S. Higher Education.” A major conclusion of the report is that there is a lack of accountability and transparency in colleges and universities. As a result, there is a major movement toward systems of continuous improvement, and a new emphasis is being placed on a kind of quality assurance called “learning outcomes assessment,” mandated by many states for colleges and university degree programs.&nbsp;</p>
<p>In college programs, it used to be enough to test the students in each course and assess learning in little bits and pieces along the way and just give out grades. I sit on the accreditation board for graphic communications-oriented college programs, called the Accrediting Council for Collegiate Graphic Communications (ACCGC). We just met at PRINT 13. What accreditation assures is, essentially, that a system or quality assurance is in place for the educational program. This is achieved mainly through a process of learning outcomes assessment.</p>
<p>The essential concept of learning outcomes assessment is to develop very broadly stated knowledge and/or skill-based outcomes that graduates of the degree program are expected to have learned, and then to figure out ways to measure the outcomes.</p>
<p>For example, our faculty and advisory board for the graphic communications degree program at Illinois State University have developed these six learning outcomes:</p>
<ol>
<li>Create and manage digital media content, including photographic, illustration, video, and animation.</li>
<li>Develop production-ready graphic layouts for digital media, print products, and cross-media products like publications, packages, labels, and signage.</li>
<li>Participate productively in a range of graphic production processes, including printing (litho, flexo, digital), e-publishing, cross-media, and website development.</li>
<li>Employ a technology management skill set, including project management, quality control, and business practices.</li>
<li>Learn independently within the context of the graphic communications discipline.</li>
<li>Solve problems within the context of the graphic communications discipline.</li>
</ol>
<p>How to measure these outcomes effectively is a challenge. We do this in our program at ISU through a number of different measures. Students have to complete a senior project, we survey employers of our graduates, and we survey graduates themselves: the resulting data give us a pretty accurate picture of learning. But that’s not enough: once measured the program faculty must look for ways to improve the results over time. Check out more about ACCGC here: <a href="http://www.accgc.org/">www.accgc.org</a>.</p>
<p><em>Find more information on </em><a href="https://system.printing.org/index.php?dispatch=products2.view&amp;product_id=7248">The New PrintScape: A Crash Course in Graphic Communications</a><em> and other new releases from Printing Industries Press by visiting <a href="https://system.printing.org/">www.printing.org/store</a>.</em><a href="https://system.printing.org/index.php?dispatch=products2.view&amp;product_id=7248"><em><br /></em></a></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11623#commentsGeneralPublicationsMon, 23 Sep 2013 18:05:27 +0000mflynn@printing.org11623 at http://blog.printing.orgBusiness-Building Strategies Abound at the 2014 BIA Conference http://blog.printing.org/blog/11621
<p>We all want to see our companies grow. Even if we’re not the CEO, what’s good for the goose is good for the gander as they say! A company with a strong foundation of leadership and employee dedication benefits everyone within the organization. It allows for expansion into new markets, technologies, networks, and overall success.</p>
<p>The 2014 Binding Industries Association (BIA) Annual Conference* is all about building strong bonds. Over the years this event has built a dedicated following of trade binderies, graphic finishers, information packaging companies, and custom loose-leaf manufacturers seeking the information they need to build their business. Attendees learn leadership skills through a variety of applications for a holistic understanding on the best ways to lead a successful company.</p>
<p>Topics include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Leading your organization to success</li>
<li>Connecting with innovators, peers, and suppliers in your industry</li>
<li>Using the latest technologies to build your business</li>
<li>Cultivating a motivating employee culture</li>
</ul>
<p>Mark your calendars for the 2014 BIA Annual Conference, March 31–April 2, 2014, at the Fairmont Dallas Hotel in Dallas, TX. Don’t miss the exciting plant tours and special networking sessions to get the most value from your trip.</p>
<p>You can find plenty more binding, finishing, and related resources through Printing Industries of America. For everything there is to know about binding, check out <a href="http://www.printing.org/store/4598"><em>A Short History of Binding</em></a> that takes you from Mesopotamia to today’s technologies. Always carry the handy <a href="http://www.printing.org/store/4948"><em>A Field Guide to Folding</em></a> featuring an anytime reference that includes the award-winning FOLDRite<sup>TM</sup> system.</p>
<p>For more information about BIA, visit <a href="http://www.printing.org/bia">www.printing.org/bia</a> or contact Mike Packard, Director, Binding Industries Association, at <a href="mailto:mpackard@printing.org">mpackard@printing.org</a>.</p>
<p><em>*More information about the event coming soon!</em></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11621#commentsGeneralConferencesThu, 19 Sep 2013 20:22:01 +0000mflynn@printing.org11621 at http://blog.printing.orgOffset vs. Digital Printing: Making Your Decision and Optimizing Output http://blog.printing.org/blog/11618
<p>You’re looking for more ways to optimize your workflow to stay competitive and turn a profit. As technology expands, however, so do your choices in printing methods.</p>
<p>When deciding on a printing method, <a href="http://www.printing.org/page/4325">offset printing</a> and <a href="http://www.printing.org/page/4295">digital printing</a> offer plenty of their own advantages and disadvantages. Offset printing success depends largely on the optimized speed and efficiency of both your machinery and operators to achieve ISO 12647-2 and G7® qualifications. While digital allows for shorter variable runs, it does not always reproduce the high image quality associated with offset. So how do you choose a method?</p>
<p>To help kick start your decision, here is a quick look at the advantages in offset vs. digital printing:</p>
<p><strong>Offset</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>High image quality</li>
<li>Lower cost-per-unit as quantities increase</li>
<li>Wider range of substrates and finishes</li>
<li>More accurate color match for Pantone® inks</li>
</ul>
<p>(Need a tip? Take a look at these “<a href="http://blog.printing.org/blog/11365"><strong>5 Best Bets for Your Offset Press: If You Can’t Measure It, You Can’t Control It!</strong></a><strong>”</strong>)</p>
<p><strong>Digital</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Customization</li>
<li>Quicker turnaround and delivery time</li>
<li>Four-color process printing</li>
<li>Accurate color proofing</li>
</ul>
<p>No matter the type of printing you use, to stay competitive your work must be virtually flawless—your press crew and equipment all have to run like a well-oiled machine!</p>
<p>Therefore, we want to offer a solution. There’s a valuable training program coming this fall designed to help you optimize your offset printing. Take advantage of <a href="http://training.printing.org/page/11110"><strong>Extreme Offset: Troubleshoot, Control, Optimize</strong></a><strong>, November 5–7, 2013, </strong>part of Printing Industries of America’s reputable <a href="http://www.printing.org/training">training programs</a>.In this popular hands-on workshop, you get to see how to meet <a href="http://www.printing.org/printanalysis">ISO 12647-2</a> and G7® print quality in a live pressroom setting. Learn how to troubleshoot problems, control print components, and optimize your press performance for consistent quality and less waste.</p>
<p>Led by experienced industry veterans, Lloyd DeJidas, Director, Graphic Services and Facility Manager, and Greg Workman, Pressroom and Bindery Supervisor and consultant for the <a href="http://www.printing.org/ctr">Center for Technology and Research</a>, you will get the tools and techniques you need to slash makeready time and accelerate press performance.</p>
<p><strong>Registration is open for </strong><a href="http://training.printing.org/page/11110"><strong>Extreme Offset: Troubleshoot, Control, Optimize</strong></a>, <strong>November 5–7, 2013, </strong>at Printing Industries of America headquarters, Pittsburgh, PA.</p>
<p><em>For information on offset printing and more, including cost calculators, technology articles, and white papers, visit the </em><a href="http://www.printing.org/free"><strong><em>Free from Center for Technology and Research</em></strong></a><em>page.</em></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11618#commentsGeneralResearch and TechnologyTue, 17 Sep 2013 17:39:54 +0000mflynn@printing.org11618 at http://blog.printing.orgIndustry Trends Report: Part 3—Profitshttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11617
<p><em>In this <strong>four-part series</strong>, we’ll take a look at how each indicator from the </em>Monthly Conditions Dashboard<em> is affecting your business based on the survey results from the past 15 months. Charts are also provided to show the trends in an easy-to-read format, so you can benchmark your current market conditions with hundreds of other printers.</em></p>
<p>In July, we shared some market insights based on data pulled from the <em>Monthly Industry Conditions Dashboard. </em>This market monitoring report from our Economic and Market Research department can be used to determine where the industry is trending in the short term, which can help you better forecast demand for the coming quarters.</p>
<p>In <a href="http://www.printing.org/blog/11359">Industry Trends Report: Part 1—Monthly Sales</a> we learned about the wide swings and modestly rising sales printers are experiencing. Positive sales for 2013 are predicted in <a href="http://blog.printing.org/blog/11439">Industry Trends Report: Part 2—Sales Expectations</a>.</p>
<p>How do we get these results? Survey respondents provide information in five principle areas—<strong><em>1) Monthly Sales, 2) Sales Expectations, 3) Profits, </em></strong>and<strong><em> 4) Print and Paper Prices. </em></strong>Current sales and profits are compared to the previous month. Printing prices and paper prices are current month compared to 12 months earlier. Sales expectations are expectations for next month compared to the current month. Respondents are asked to report the directional change of each of the five key indicators (increasing, decreasing, or no change).</p>
<p>We’ll compare print and paper prices in two weeks for Part 4 of the series and where you can expect them to be in 2013.</p>
<p><em>The findings you will read are based on July 2013 calculations using a net diffusion index. A net diffusion index is an index where the percentage of respondents reporting an increase is subtracted from the percentage of respondents reporting a decrease. The net diffusion index provides a simple snapshot of printers’ market perceptions for each variable.</em></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11617#commentsGeneralEconomicsMon, 16 Sep 2013 19:35:46 +0000mflynn@printing.org11617 at http://blog.printing.orgWhat You Need to Know about the New Hazard Communication Requirements, Get to Know the Safety Data Sheet http://blog.printing.org/blog/11531
<p>Not only is it a smart idea to make sure every employee is informed of chemical hazards in the workplace, it’s also <em>the law! </em>Many of us in the printing industry work with chemicals and materials on a daily basis, and under the Hazard Communication Standard, OSHA requires printing companies to identify hazardous chemicals and provide training to ensure that employees are working with these chemicals in a safe manner. <img style="float: right;" src="https://system.printing.org/images/imageThumbs/120_120_120_120_120_120_120_120_120_120_120_120_120_120_SafetyPoster-SDS-cover.jpg" alt="" /></p>
<p>OSHA has made significant revisions to the Hazard Communication Standard, including replacing the Material Safety Data Sheet with the Safety Data Sheet (SDS). In response, we are making available to all members “need to know” information to stay in compliance with the new requirements and free tools to implement a Hazard Communication program to meet them.</p>
<p>If you’re familiar with the <em>Safety—Know It, Live It</em> poster series,you know these popular resources function as straightforward visual references to guides for employees providing critical safety information while they work. We’ve just added two new posters to the series, “<a href="https://system.printing.org/index.php?dispatch=products.view&amp;product_id=7180">Get to Know the Safety Data Sheet</a>” and “<a href="https://system.printing.org/index.php?dispatch=products.view&amp;product_id=7181">Globally Harmonized System of Classification (GHS) Pictograms Quick Reference</a>.”</p>
<p>Let’s dive deeper into the details of the new Safety Data Sheet (SDS) represented in the “Get to Know the Safety Data Sheet” poster. The “Get to Know the Safety Data Sheet” poster provides employees with a reference for what information can be found on an SDS and where to look for it.</p>
<p><strong>Let’s look at some important facts about the revised Standard and new SDSs: </strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Safety Data Sheets are replacing Material Safety Data Sheets, and now have a mandatory uniform 16-section format.</li>
<li>Manufacturers and suppliers of chemicals are required to determine what hazards could be presented by their product, and they must inform you about those hazards on labels and SDSs.</li>
<li>Employers are required obtain an SDS for every hazardous chemical employees work with and to maintain them so they can be accessed.</li>
<li>On the SDS, you can find information on a variety of topics about the product, including physical and chemical properties, personal protection, handling, storage procedures, first aid procedures, and health effects in the event of exposure.</li>
<li>The safety posters are designed to be displayed in employee break rooms or in other common areas to reinforce key safety messages. Posters can also be placed near equipment, along production lines, or at entrances to production areas.</li>
</ul>
<p>There are also new labeling procedures in the revised Standard which require that all labels must include a Product Identifier, Signal Word (such as DANGER), Hazard Statement, Pictogram, Precautionary Statement, and manufacturer contact information.</p>
<p>Employees must receive initial training on the new SDS and labeling requirements by <strong>December 1, 2013. </strong>For more information on the new Hazard Communication Standard and requirements, visit our Hazard Communication Guidance for Printing Operations webpage at www.printing.org/hazcom.</p>
<p>Finally, remember that you have a right to a safe work environment, and everyone has a role in keeping the workplace free of hazards. More information is available to you on the <a href="http://www.printing.org/compliance">EHS Regulatory Compliance</a> webpage.</p>
<p>Remember, that the first employee training deadline for the revised requirements was December 1, 2013, and look for the free <em>Guide to Hazard Communication for Printing Operations</em> and other training materials. To learn more, download our <a href="http://www.printing.org/safetyposters"><strong><em>Safety—Know It, Live It</em></strong></a> posters today. Member login is required for the free download. For questions on these or other compliance resources, contact Gary Jones, Assistant Vice President, EHS Affairs, at <a href="mailto:gjones@printing.org">gjones@printing.org</a><span style="text-decoration: underline;">.</span></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11531#commentsGeneralGreen and SustainabilityTue, 03 Sep 2013 14:09:56 +0000mflynn@printing.org11531 at http://blog.printing.orgPrinting Issues Solved! How Can Our Technical Consultants Help You?http://blog.printing.org/blog/11523
<p><em>An Interview with Keith Whistler, Technology and Research Analyst</em></p>
<p>The expert consultants for our <a href="http://www.printing.org/ctr">Center for Technology and Research</a> have one main feature in common: qualifying experience and the drive to help companies find solutions. More than a dozen full-time and external consultants are available to support members in all facets of printing operations. The goal is to help firms improve their operational performance and competitive position.</p>
<p>So just how do these business-saving experts and consultants help <em>your</em> company? We talked to one of our consultants, <a href="http://www.printing.org/keithwhisler">Keith Whisler</a>, who lends his expertise in offset and digital printing, color management, and operational issues. With two decades in commercial printing, it’s safe to say he has a vast amount of experience and knowledge. But it is his holistic perspective from a customer’s point of view that really sets him apart.</p>
<p>Take a look at how Keith’s experiences taught him how to overcome challenges and how he now applies his talent to printing companies like yours. </p>
<p><strong>Q:</strong> What is your background in this field, and how has this has enabled you to become a successful consultant?<br /> <br /> <strong>Keith:</strong> Experience.&nbsp;I&nbsp;have more than 20 years in commercial printing, providing a great perspective on our customer’s position.&nbsp;Having been a customer much of my career, my experiences remain fresh. This helps me understand their circumstances and challenges.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
<p>My background ranges from prepress to plant manager, so&nbsp;I&nbsp;also have insight on different layers within an organization (operator to top management).&nbsp;I&nbsp;have been in management for&nbsp;more than 18 years.&nbsp; My work has always been technology focused with an emphasis on deploying new systems, including identification, purchasing, implementation, and training.&nbsp;</p>
<p>I&nbsp;have a strong background in IT and prepress, enabling me to move technology into other areas of&nbsp;manufacturing, such as the press and finishing departments. I honed my problem-solving skills because I have always been&nbsp;in areas&nbsp;where&nbsp;I&nbsp;had no choice but to find a way to overcome challenges.</p>
<p><strong>Q: </strong>&nbsp;What is your current role with our consulting team?&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Keith:</strong> Technology and Research Analyst, which includes consulting, training, presentations, product testing, writing articles, and developing process improvement tools. I stay abreast of industry trends and technology developments and relay that information to our members and the industry. With an ever-changing&nbsp;environment like printing, it is vital to incorporate these changes in resources that can benefit the industry, such as updated training material, reference articles, and&nbsp;consultation services. For example, one recent project was to explore the technology of vision inspection, and how it will increasingly be used in the printing industry. I’ll also be giving a presentation on wide-format inkjet at PRINT 13.</p>
<p><strong>Q:</strong> What are some of the highlights of your consulting&nbsp;experiences?</p>
<p><strong>Keith:</strong> Printing Industries of America provides great resources to their&nbsp;consultants.&nbsp;I&nbsp;recently earned the <a href="http://training.printing.org/page/10908">G7 Expert and Color Management Professional certifications&nbsp;</a>through&nbsp;IDEAlliance. This gives me the opportunity to help others learn and accomplish what&nbsp;I&nbsp;was already doing in the industry on the production side. The opportunity to share what&nbsp;I&nbsp;learn is another highlight for me. It's rewarding to relate to our members, having been in their shoes, and then have the opportunity to help by applying the vast knowledge and resources available at Printing Industries of America.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Q:</strong> What is the most rewarding part of your job?&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Keith:</strong> Involvement in a never-ending learning and teaching&nbsp;environment and the pleasure of working with so many great people within the industry.<br /><br /></p>
<p><strong>More Resources:</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.printing.org/ctr">Center for Technology and Research</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.printing.org/page/9568">Consulting and Training</a></p>
<p><a href="http://training.printing.org/node/6696">Custom Training</a></p>
<p><a href="http://training.printing.org/page/11115">G7 Offset Press Operator Training Program (September 26–27, 2013)</a></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11523#commentsGeneralResearch and TechnologyFri, 23 Aug 2013 20:36:10 +0000mflynn@printing.org11523 at http://blog.printing.orgLesson 1: Fall Training Courses that Help Grow Your Business!http://blog.printing.org/blog/11518
<p>Are you or your staff prepared to meet growing customer demands when new standards and technologies are evolving faster than you can say, “training”? Begin the fall 2013 season by going back to school. We have a lineup of highly rated, hands-on training courses to give your company an upper hand on the competition.</p>
<table style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; border-color: #000000; border-width: 1px; border-style: solid;" border="1">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;" colspan="2"><strong>Fall 3013 Training Workshops</strong></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>September 26–27 <br /></strong></td>
<td><strong> G7<sup>®</sup> Offset Press Operator Training Program&nbsp; <br /></strong></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>October 1–2&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; <br /></strong></td>
<td><strong>Safety Matters: OSHA Compliance for Printers</strong></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>October 8–9</strong></td>
<td><strong>G7<sup>®</sup> Digital Press Operator Training Program</strong></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>October 21–24</strong></td>
<td><strong>Orientation to the Graphic Arts</strong></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>November 5–7</strong></td>
<td><strong>Extreme Offset: Troubleshoot, Control, Optimize</strong></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>Why does it pay to send employees for quality off-site training at Printing Industries of America headquarters in Pittsburgh, PA?</p>
<p>We have the <strong>skilled experts and trainers</strong> that attendees say are “<em>engaging</em>” and “<em>extremely knowledgeable and consistent.</em>” Attendees learn via <strong>classroom and hands-on instruction</strong> for a comprehensive understanding they can take back to their facility. Additionally, off-site training, away from their daily work, allows for <strong>complete focus and material absorption</strong>—which leads to greater ROI!</p>
<p>Visit <a href="http://www.printing.org/training">www.printing.org/training</a> and look under “Public Workshops” for all of our 2013 training courses.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11518#commentsGeneralTraining/EducationWed, 21 Aug 2013 17:42:01 +0000mflynn@printing.org11518 at http://blog.printing.org5 Digital Printing Design Tipshttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11511
<p>Digital printing presents some unique challenges when it comes to design, but with some basic design conderations, you can create jobs destined for digital printing that look great and fly through production! Learn about the software tools and best practices for dealing with color, transparency, PDF creation, variable data and more at&nbsp;my hands-on Mac lab at PRINT13® in Chicago, IL titled&nbsp;<a href="http://print13.mapyourshow.com/5_0/sessions/sessiondetails.cfm?ScheduledSessionID=18A9CDC1">Digital Print Design: 20 Top Tips 'n Tricks</a>. Here's a sneak-peek:</p>
<p><strong>1. Always color correct images in the RGB color space</strong></p>
<p>When images are converted from RGB to CMYK, you lose color information—a lot of it. As a result, you (and Photoshop) have fewer colors to work with, or average, when attempting to make color changes to an image. Also, when images are converted from RGB to CMYK, you’re creating the black separation and reducing the amount of CMY in the image at the same time. Depending upon how much CMY is eliminated in the separation, it can be very difficult—or even impossible—to make color adjustments to an image.</p>
<p><strong>2. Test your fonts</strong></p>
<p>Freeware fonts are readily available for download all over the Internet. Some of these fonts can contains restrictions the prohibit PDF creation and printing–something you may not find out until you’ve finished designing your job.</p>
<p>Before you design your project, it is always best to test the font. First, activate the font on your system. Then create an InDesign or QuarkXPress document using that font. Finally, export the page and try to create a PDF. If the PDF is created without any warnings, then the font can be embedded.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>3. Avoid large solids</strong></p>
<p>While lithographic presses have the ability to reproduce solids evenly, toner-based devices have a&nbsp; tendency to mottle, show unevenness, or even banding. This is because ink and toner are radically different materials. When toner is applied to paper, it is dry. Toner is not actually absorbed into the paper fibers, instead,&nbsp; it is fused to the sheet using both heat and fuser oil, creating a bond. Consistency lies in how evenly the toner was applied to the paper, and how evenly it was fused to the paper.</p>
<p>If tints and large solids must be used in a design, there are some ways to help counteract the uneven&nbsp; appearance associated with toner-based devices. First, try applying a filter (Photoshop Add Noise or Texture filters work well) to the large tint or solids. Another option is to also break up large color areas with other design elements such as text, images, or illustrations.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>4. Folds</strong></p>
<p>Because toner is fused to the paper surface and not absorbed like ink, it can be more prone to cracking along folds. Thin lines, rules, and headline text across a fold is generally acceptable, but if heavy coverage must be used in the design, be sure to ask your print service provider to score the printed sheet before folding.</p>
<p><strong>5. Variable text fields</strong></p>
<p>If you’re producing a VDP job, consider the longest word in a field when creating text containers for variable data. Anticipate odd word breaks, especially with variable type in large point sizes by randomly testing some of the data that will be swapped into the design during printing.</p>
<p>Like these tips?&nbsp;</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11511#commentsThu, 15 Aug 2013 16:30:16 +0000jmarin@printing.org11511 at http://blog.printing.orgGet Your Technical Issues Solved http://blog.printing.org/blog/11510
<p>When you hear “Who you gonna call?” we tend to think of those ghost-busting heroes from the 1980s. But Printing Industries of America has real experts who printers call on when they need challenging problems solved and are continually working to drive the industry forward with technical innovations.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The full-time researchers and scientists working on-site at the Center for Technology and Research have helped hundreds of industry members by offering technical advice, lab testing, consulting services, training, and more.</p>
<p>In our 2013 Member Satisfaction Survey, more than three-fourths of members said these technical services are an important membership benefit. At the Center for Technology and Research, we focus on all aspects of the printing process, including paper and ink testing, color management, digital printing, and management information systems. Find out about the services we offer in “<a href="http://blog.printing.org/blog/11434">What Can the Center for Technology and Research Do for You</a>?”</p>
<p>So who are these experts and how can their work benefit your company? Get to know some of our staff members here. They are just a few of the professionals helping our industry get the most from production processes, improve consumables, access education, understand the industry standards we set, and benefit from the latest technical innovations.</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Dr. Mark Bohan, Vice President, Center for Technology and Research—</strong>Dr. Bohan has spoken extensively on many topics, including research, press optimization, CIM technologies, and the opportunities they present. He is active in CIP4, (<a href="http://www.printing.org/markbohan">More…</a>)<br /><br /></li>
<li><strong>Jim Workman, Assistant Vice President, Technology and Research</strong>—Jim Workman helps members by providing them with the knowledge to make smart decisions about technology. He is directly responsible for the InterTech Technology Awards competition, custom training activities, and the annual Continuous Improvement Conference. He is a certified mailpiece design consultant and provides member support on mailing issues (<a href="http://www.printing.org/jimworkman">More…</a>)<br /><br /></li>
<li><strong>Lloyd DeJidas, Director, Graphic Services &amp; Facility Group—</strong>Supervising printing and support services for research, material testing, training, marketing, and technical information, DeJidas serves as a workshop instructor and has guided publishing efforts through major changes in lithographic technology and process controls (<a href="http://www.printing.org/staff/6689">More…</a>)<br /><br /></li>
<li><strong>Dave Dezzutti, Technology and Research Analyst—</strong>Dezzutti is one of the industry’s leading experts in color management and is a &nbsp;G7<sup>®</sup>&nbsp;Certified Expert. He brings years of practical experience to his consulting assignments (<a href="http://www.printing.org/daviddezzutti">More…</a>)<br /><br /></li>
<li><strong>Mike Duvall, Computational Research Analyst—</strong>As a certifier of JDF products, Duvall writes applications in the C# programming language. He is also an active member of CIP4 (<a href="http://www.printing.org/michaelduvall">More…</a>)<br /><br /></li>
<li><strong>Brad Evans, Senior Research Technician/Lab Coordinator—</strong>Evans is a technical expert providing support to industry companies for more than 30 years. He has developed an unparalleled reputation for spotting the causes of print, ink, paper, and finishing problems. Over the years he has evaluated 5,000 problem jobs (<a href="http://www.printing.org/bradevans">More…</a>)<br /><br /></li>
<li><strong>Dillon Mooney, Technical Consultant—</strong>Mooney runs the Technical Hotline, answering more than 1,000 queries a year. He is a certified trainer of the Sheetfed Offset Training Simulator (<a href="http://www.printing.org/dillonmooney">More…</a>)<br /><br /></li>
<li><strong>Greg Workman, Technical Consultant/Pressroom and Bindery Supervisor—</strong>Greg Workman, a 34-year industry veteran, provides pressroom consulting and training support. He is a nationally certified sheetfed and web press operator through the National Council for Print Industry Certifications (<a href="http://www.printing.org/staff/5228">More…</a>)<br /><br /></li>
<li><strong>Keith Whisler, Technology and Research Analyst—</strong>With more than20 years production experience at several commercial printing facilities, Whisler assists companies by conducting production assessments, implementing improved color management practices, and delivering training programs (<a href="http://www.printing.org/keithwhisler">More…</a>)<br /><br /></li>
<li><strong>Gary Jones, Assistant Vice President, EHS Affairs—</strong>Jones monitors and analyzes EHS regulatory activities at all government levels and provides representation on behalf of the printing industry. He provides membership assistance through a variety of approaches including responding to inquiries, writing, and consulting services (<a href="http://www.printing.org/staff/5183">More…</a>)<br /><br /></li>
<li><strong>Rick Hartwig, Manager, Environmental Health and Safety Affairs—</strong>Directly involved with operations management and regulatory compliance, Hartwig works closely with environmental, health, and safety issues at the federal, state, and local levels. He provides EHS assistance to print members including, lectures, responses to inquiries (<a href="http://www.printing.org/staff/5180">More…</a>)</li>
</ul>
<p>Look to the experts from the <a href="http://www.printing.org/ctr">Center for Technology and Research</a> who are here to help you reduce costs, maintain consistency, and increase productivity. You can talk to many of them in person this September 8–12 as they’ll be at <a href="http://www.printing.org/print13">Printing Industries of America booth #4855 at PRINT 13</a> to answer your questions.</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11510#commentsGeneralResearch and TechnologyThu, 15 Aug 2013 14:21:03 +0000mflynn@printing.org11510 at http://blog.printing.orgASI Can Save Members Moneyhttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11507
<p><em>This is a guest blog post from </em><em>Michael Walters</em><em>, </em><em>Executive Director, Distributor Services</em> <em>at </em><em>Advertising Specialty Institute (ASI)</em><em>.</em><em> For more information about the National Buying Power Programs available to members through Printing Industries of America affiliates, visit </em><a href="http://www.printing.org/buyingpower"><em>www.printing.org/buyingpower</em></a><em>.</em></p>
<p>Every client who buys from you already uses imprinted items—logo pens, t-shirts, bags, etc. Selling promotional products is a natural progression for a lot of printers—you already have your clients’ logos, there aren’t any start-up costs, there’s a high ROI, and it’s easy to get started! The Printing Industries of America National Buying Power Program with ASI, for members through Printing Industries of America affiliates, is a great way for you to break into this $19.4 billion industry and immediately begin increasing revenue.</p>
<p><strong>Margins and Sales</strong></p>
<p>Distributors selling promotional products see:</p>
<ul>
<li>Profit margins <strong>up to 40%</strong></li>
<li>Average yearly sales around <strong>$775,000</strong></li>
</ul>
<p><strong>ROI Opportunities</strong></p>
<p>Based on the results of ASI’s <em>Global Advertising Specialties Impressions Study</em> v.3, <strong>your customers spend an average of $3,000</strong> <strong>per year</strong> on promotional items, with an <strong>average gross profit margin of 38%</strong>. Take a look at what that could mean for your annual revenues and gross profits if you sell promotional products to your current customers:</p>
<p><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/ASIGraph.jpg" alt="" height="183" width="381" /></p>
<p><a href="http://www.asicentral.com/asp/open/Research/impressionsstudy/2012.aspx">Click here</a> to view <em>Global Advertising Specialties Impressions Study</em> v.3.</p>
<p><strong>Increase Your Earning Potential</strong></p>
<p>Instead of doing one-off print jobs, help your clients build campaigns using promotional products. Campaigns help increase brand recognition for <strong>your clients</strong> and ensure repeat business for <strong>your company</strong>. You can help customers be more successful—and increase your sales.</p>
<p><strong>Want to Learn More?</strong></p>
<p>Find out how ASI’s tools can help you grow profits and expand your business and see all that ASI has to offer members through Printing Industries of America affiliates by visiting <a href="http://www.printing.org/asi">www.printing.org/asi</a>.</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11507#commentsGeneralResearch and TechnologyTue, 13 Aug 2013 17:15:33 +0000mflynn@printing.org11507 at http://blog.printing.orgHow Branding and Design Should Use Color Management Tech http://blog.printing.org/blog/11472
<p>Colors speak loudly when it comes to brands. The professionals responsible for brand color from concept to final product need to speak the same language to ensure colors are communicating the correct message. You may think that ideal is hard to achieve. Take a look to discover how you can get the color management skills from leading companies to communicate brand color, maintain its integrity through the workflow, and save costs.</p>
<p>For some real-world insight, in the comprehensive rebranding of American Airlines, the iconic brand’s red, white, and blue signature colors were reinvigorated. A product of extensive market research, the update was made to evoke a “more modern, vibrant, and welcoming spirit” that represents modern American ideals.</p>
<p>Leading the project was Chief Creative Officer Sven Seger of FutureBrand, a creative branding agency that helps companies like American Airlines use color to enhance their brand. Seger, one keynote at the <a href="http://www.printing.org/color">2013 Color Management Conference</a>, modernized the brand, creating a new livery and logo. The first in the last 40 years, this update effectively communicates the brand and remains consistent across different aircraft composite materials, ticketing kiosks, credit cards, and other substrates as well as online. Seger goes in depth at the conference as to how his team defined the American brand’s core message and created a design that saves their client resources by being repeatable across multiple substrates.&nbsp;</p>
<p>A further example of how the rebranding experts of FutureBrand approach critical color consistency is in the creation of a new visual identity for UPS that was carried across all of the brand’s products from vehicles to uniforms to packaging. They also helped their clients communicate the revamped look through the workflow of design, production, and implementation of the new brand. The rebrand included a “color palette designed to both complement and energize brown—the company’s signature color for over 100 years.” According to this <a href="http://www.futurebrand.com/">FutureBrand case study</a>, the rebranding resulted in 13% increased earnings and ranked in <em>FORTUNE Magazine</em>’s Top 50 in brand recognition in 2011.</p>
<p>Creative software company Adobe is one that is constantly putting out more innovative products to help designers maintain color from screen to print like Creative Cloud<sup>TM</sup>, Photoshop® CC, and Illustrator® CC.</p>
<p>Adobe Senior Creative Director Russell Brown is an Emmy Award-winning instructor, Adobe Photoshop virtuoso, and host of a popular Web tutorials series, “The Russell Brown Show.” Brown utilizes creative Photoshop design techniques to get the most precise colors. Another all-star keynote at the <a href="http://www.printing.org/color">2013 Color Management Conference</a>, he offers aesthetic and technical tips to maximize software for consistent color management.</p>
<p>Passionate about adding real tangibility to his work, he states that “projects aren’t real until we have something we can touch, like a print,” said Brown in a <a href="http://www.photoshop.com/spotlights/russell-brown">Photoshop.com interview</a>. His zeal inspires what he calls “extreme printing,” or creating unique pieces with decals from images imprinted on different surfaces. “The possibilities are endless, and I am always searching for that next crazy way to work with images.” Brown shares his tricks and troubleshooting techniques to get the best color output from your Photoshop designs at this one-of-a-kind conference.</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11472#commentsGeneralConferencesWed, 31 Jul 2013 13:20:34 +0000mflynn@printing.org11472 at http://blog.printing.orgHow JDF Certification Gives Your Products a Competitive Advantagehttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11460
<p>Like a common language, wide-format digital printers need set standards to enable their devices to communicate with different parts of the workflow efficiently. When different products operate on the same standard “language,” printers can easily purchase new equipment that will integrate with their existing workflow and connect with one another. Using JDF technology, they achieve standardized interoperability and break free of the data exchange issues and loss of time and revenue caused by competing systems.</p>
<p>Through Printing Industries of America, you can take advantage of a new CIP4 <a href="http://www.printing.org/jdfcertification">JDF Product Certification Program</a> for wide-format devices to complement the existing certifications. This new certification is based on the <strong>Digital Print Workflow Interoperability Conformance Specification (DPW ICS) 1.4a. </strong>Why is this important to the growing wide-format market? For starters, a JDF Certification provides a competitive selling point to attract new customers and extend services for new clients. For a limited time, members can participate in a beta test of DPW ICSat a special reduced fee.*</p>
<p>Here, Dr. Mark Bohan, Vice President, Technology and Research, Printing Industries of America, and CIP4’s Education &amp; Marketing Officer, shares some of his thoughts on JDF Certification for both the seller and the consumer. Discover facts that will increase consumer confidence in purchasing JDF-Certified products and the unique profitable advantages for sellers.</p>
<p><strong>Q: What does “JDF-Certified” mean?</strong></p>
<p><strong>Mark Bohan:</strong> <em>If a product is “JDF-Certified,” it means that it writes and reads JDF and JMF as established in one of many “Interoperability Conformance Specifications” (ICS) documents published by CIP4. The “ICS” documents establish the basic requirements for systems that produce and consume JDF within different workflow options. Certification means that a product has proven that it meets these requirements for basic interoperability, the level of the certification relating to the amount of JDF and JMF information that the systems will handle.</em></p>
<p><strong>Q: Who certifies that my products are JDF compliant?</strong></p>
<p><strong>MB:</strong> <em>Printing Industries of America provides world-wide JDF certification testing for CIP4. Registration for the certification is carried out through the CIP4 website, </em><a href="http://www.cip4.org"><em>www.cip4.org</em></a><em>. The program was developed in collaboration with CIP4 and their members to provide a method to ensure that the basic interoperability was available. We have seen great strides over the years with the results for the certifications and level of JDF implemented by the different manufacturers. On a personal note, it has been great to see the development of the program and the success that it has had in helping workflow implementations, as this was one of the reasons that I joined Printing Industries of America to head up this program.</em></p>
<p><strong>Q: How will my customers know that my product is JDF-Certified?</strong></p>
<p><strong>MB:</strong> <em>We issue products certified by Printing Industries of America a JDF-Certified logo with a unique certification number. You can look up the details of that product’s certification history with that unique number at the&nbsp;</em><a href="http://www.cip4.org/certification/certified_products.php" target="_blank"><em>JDF Product Certification list</em><em>&nbsp;</em></a><em>on the CIP4 site. This will outline the product and also the certification details, including the JDF version, level, and if there were any gray box expansions it received. </em></p>
<p><strong>Q: Does JDF Certification guarantee to my customer that a product is interoperable?</strong></p>
<p><strong>MB:</strong> <em>JDF Certification does guarantee a basic level of interoperability, but optional and advanced feature support for JDF may be supported by some products and not others. Hence, when integrating two JDF systems, customers will still need some setup and testing, but the two systems will share a common denominator.</em></p>
<p><strong>Q: Will certified products work with uncertified products?</strong></p>
<p><strong>MB:</strong> <em>Certified and uncertified products may certainly work together, but your customer may find that it takes more time and effort to establish interoperability with uncertified systems.</em></p>
<p><strong>Q: What are the advantages of obtaining a JDF Certification for my products?</strong></p>
<p><strong>MB:</strong> <em>To your customers, a JDF Certification is a unique, trusted symbol that your product is high quality and easy to install in their facility and integrate with their current systems as well as through other certified products. This has been a common discussion point during many of our Automation Solutions Network meetings where the printers are looking for that efficient installation and added value from automation.</em></p>
<p><em>It also shows that the companies receiving the JDF Certification are fully committed to open standards and specifications and looking for the best possible interoperability between systems. The ability of the certified product to connect with existing systems will save on labor and development costs, as much of the functionality is known to work. It is then time to concentrate on those enhancements that differentiate the product combinations.</em></p>
<p><em>Overall, obtaining a JDF Certification from Printing Industries of America and CIP4 is a statement that you are dedicated to improving the company’s workflow, and with the new program in particular, their wide-format digital workflow and profitability. You gain an advantage on your competition and status as a cutting-edge company. </em></p>
<p><em>*Find more information about JDF Product Certification and the <strong>DPW ICS beta program</strong> at </em><a href="http://www.printing.org/jdfcertification"><em>www.printing.org/jdfcertification</em></a><em>. If you have questions on the product registration process, contact Michael Duvall, Computational Research Scientist, Printing Industries of America, at </em><a href="mailto:mduvall@printing.org"><em>mduvall@printing.org</em></a><em>. </em></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11460#commentsGeneralResearch and TechnologyWed, 17 Jul 2013 19:39:56 +0000mflynn@printing.org11460 at http://blog.printing.orgIndustry Trends Report: Part 2—Sales Expectationshttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11439
<p><em>In this <strong>four-part series,</strong> we’ll take a look at how each indicator from the </em>Monthly Conditions Dashboard<em> is affecting your business based on the survey results from the past 11 months. Charts are also provided to show the trends in an easy-to-read format, so you can benchmark your current market conditions with hundreds of other printers.</em></p>
<p>Where do you expect your sales to go in 2013? Earlier this month in <a href="http://www.printing.org/blog/11359">Industry Trends Report: Part 1—Monthly Sales</a>, we told you about printers’ wide swings and recent modestly rising sales based on the <em>Monthly Industry Conditions Dashboard</em>.* This report is a new industry market trends report from our Economic and Market Research department that allows you to plan your business strategies each month.</p>
<p>How does it all work? Survey respondents provide information in five principle areas—<strong><em>1) Monthly Sales, 2) Sales Expectations, 3) Profits, 4) Print, and 5) Paper Prices. </em></strong>Current sales and profits are compared to the previous month. Printing prices and paper prices are current-month compared to 12 months earlier. Sales expectations are expectations for next month compared to the current month. Respondents are asked to report the directional change of each of the five key indicators (increasing, decreasing, or no change).</p>
<p>We’re taking a little vacation in July, but check back in August to see the latest industry profit trends in Part 3 of the series!</p>
<p><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/blog/EconomicsGraphforBlog.jpg" alt="" height="334" width="559" /></p>
<p><em>The findings you will read are based on May 2012 to May 2013 calculations using a net diffusion index, where the percentage of respondents reporting an increase is subtracted from the percentage of respondents reporting a decrease. The net diffusion index provides a simple snapshot of printers’ market perceptions for each variable.</em></p>
<p><strong>Part 2: Sales Expectations </strong></p>
<p>Printers’ sales expectations have also experienced wide swings over the past 13 months and generally are a leading indicator for next month’s sales. The expectations index peaked at 39.6% in February of&nbsp; 2012 after hitting a low of –18.9% in November—one of only three negative readings during the past 13 months.</p>
<p>The overall sales expectations index average for the period was 14.6%. In the first quarter of 2013, the monthly sales diffusion index and sales expectations index changed drastically from month to month. The end result was no growth in the first quarter of 2013 according to our Quarterly Print Market Survey. So far the first two months of the second quarter point toward slightly more consistent and moderate growth. Our panel expects the second quarter to end strong with 21% more expecting June sales to be stronger than May sales than those expecting sales in June to decline compared to May.</p>
<p><em>Printing Industries of America members respond to a survey to uncover some of the key areas of their business to develop the </em>Monthly Industry Conditions Dashboard<em> from the Economic and Market Research department. With regular updates on current market trends, printers are better able to benchmark their business, prepare, and make more informed decisions to improve their bottom line. </em></p>
<p><em>To participate in the May 2013 survey and learn more, go to </em><a href="http://www.printing.org/surveys"><em>www.printing.org/surveys</em></a><em>. All individual company information will be kept confidential. For questions, contact Ed Gleeson at </em><a href="mailto:egleeson@printing.org"><em>egleeson@printing.org</em></a><em>. </em></p>
<p>*<a href="https://app.cvent.com/Reports/Welcome.aspx?p=36733370-f814-4381-bcfb-a0dc6b56a005">Click here</a> to visit the <em>Monthly Industry Conditions Dashboard—</em>login using the username and password provided.</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11439#commentsGeneralEconomicsMon, 01 Jul 2013 15:10:15 +0000mflynn@printing.org11439 at http://blog.printing.orgWhat Can the Center for Technology and Research Do for You? http://blog.printing.org/blog/11434
<p>Where would we be today without technology and innovation? We’ve seen new technologies in areas like workflow automation, high-speed inkjet, and intelligent mail that provide industry members with expanded opportunities. Printing Industries of America has a dedicated team that stays on top of advancing technologies and how they will likely impact the future of our industry.</p>
<p>What began with the Lithographic Technical Foundation (LTF), which became the Graphic Arts Technical Foundation (GATF), has grown into the <a href="http://www.printing.org/ctr"><strong>Center for Technology and Research</strong></a><strong>.</strong> Members of the printing and graphic arts community recognize us as the trusted source for technical information, testing services, publications, expert training, and consultation.</p>
<p>So what can the Center for Technology and Research do for you? Take a look at some of the benefits we offer that make your organization more profitable and efficient.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.printing.org/node/4254"><strong>Contract Research</strong></a><strong>, </strong><a href="http://www.printing.org/consulting"><strong>Consulting</strong></a><strong>, and </strong><a href="http://www.printing.org/customtraining"><strong>Custom Training</strong></a><br /> We have solutions for your unique issues. When your company needs testing to solve a production issue, we create a customized research plan. Consultation services provide an unbiased assessment of your company’s performance. Our custom training programs give your employees the training they need when and where they need it.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.printing.org/labservices"><strong>Lab Services</strong></a><strong>, </strong><a href="http://www.printing.org/processcontrols"><strong>Process Controls</strong></a><strong>, and </strong><a href="http://www.printing.org/producttesting"><strong>Product Testing</strong></a><br /> Do you need to implement materials quality control? Do you have a print problem leaving you stumped? We’re one of the few places in the world with the expertise and equipment to diagnose and analyze it for you. We also design and sell devices such color bars, test forms, and light indicators to improve your control of print production. Finally, we routinely test paper, ink, and other materials on press to help suppliers improve their products.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.printing.org/hotline"><strong>Technical Hotline</strong></a><br /> Speaking of “calling upon” experts, with our Tech Hotline, just pick up the phone and dial a technical expert! This is a <strong><em>free</em></strong> member service. We’ve helped with thousands of issues, so call our Technical Consultant, Dillon Mooney, at 1-800-910-4283, ext 786.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.printing.org/page/10605"><strong>Simulators</strong></a><br /> This one-of-a-kind press training simulation software recreates press operations which schools and companies can use as a practice press. It exposes trainees to a variety of printing conditions and problems, provides a “hands on” component to a training class, and can also be used to assess an individual’s skill level.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.printing.org/intertechawards"><strong>InterTech Technology Award</strong></a><br /> Has your company developed an innovation that you expect to have a significant impact on the industry? The InterTech™ Technology Awards have honored the development of technologies predicted to have a major impact on the graphic arts and related industries. More than 80% of technologies that receive an award experience continued commercial success in the marketplace.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.printing.org/automation"><strong>Automation</strong></a><strong> and </strong><a href="http://www.printing.org/cim"><strong>JDF</strong></a></p>
<p>We have solutions and best practices for implementing automation in your facility, regardless of its size. Our JDF certification gives you the confidence that the products will operate in your workflow and derive the benefits of automation.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.printing.org/free"><strong>More Free Resources</strong></a><br /> We provide many free resources, such as our MIS and Mailing surveys, free webinars and reports, our <a href="http://www.printing.org/techalert">Tech Alert</a> newsletter that provides solutions and insights for your technical needs, and also a <a href="http://www.printing.org/productionmanager">production manager listserv</a> for both our staff and your peers to help solve your problems.</p>
<p>The Center for Technology and Research is a part of our company headquarters near Pittsburgh, PA, where we have a state-of-the-art research and printing facility. Our experts share decades of experience and are passionate about what they do.</p>
<p>As an industry member, are you taking advantage of these resources yet? Just go to <a href="http://www.printing.org/ctr">www.printing.org/ctr</a> to learn more and see a complete list of our services and products. If you’re not sure where to turn, contact the helpdesk at 1-800-920-4283, ext 786.</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11434#commentsGeneralResearch and TechnologyThu, 27 Jun 2013 18:42:52 +0000mflynn@printing.org11434 at http://blog.printing.orgGreat Deals Are Always in Demandhttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11424
<p><em>This is a guest blog post from John Conley, Vice President Commercial Print and Publishing at Xerox Corporation. For more information about the National Buying Programs available to members through Printing Industries of America affiliates, visit <a href="http://www.printing.org/buyingpower">www.printing.org/buyingpower</a>.</em></p>
<p>We are all faced with having to deal with the fast pace of change brought about by advances in technology.&nbsp; This is particularly true in the graphic arts, where we see content providers, equipment vendors, and service suppliers making changes to their product lines and service offerings and developing or using new technology.&nbsp;</p>
<p>In the past only large companies had the scale and bandwidth to take advantage of these changes, but organizations like Printing Industries of America have helped to bring the &nbsp;economic advantages of a large printer to small- and medium-size print service providers through programs like the Printing Industries of America National Buying Power program with Xerox.</p>
<p>The Xerox Buying Power program is one of the tools that Printing Industries of America provides to its members which allow print service providers (PSPs) and marketing service providers (MSPs) to compete with any size organization when it comes to acquiring equipment and services at highly competitive prices. The power of Xerox comes to your doorstep at equipment pricing levels that allow you to compete effectively anywhere in the market. This is extremely important as PSPs and MSPs are able to compete outside of their geographies thanks to the expanded branding opportunities that are created by strong Web-to-print solutions.</p>
<p>In addition to competitive equipment prices that members through Printing Industries of America receive with the program, users also gain access to all of the tools and services that are a part of the Xerox Go to Market Value proposition—which is focused on creating more value, productivity, and profitability for PSPs and MSPs. Your Xerox sales and service teams can help you with all elements of your business from new equipment, to workflow, to unique materials, to fresh ideas for new capabilities working with valued partners and subsidiaries like XMpie.</p>
<p>Xerox and Printing Industries of America have been working together successfully for more than 10 years. The Xerox Buying Power program is a key value-added service that is focused on keeping you competitive in the market while at the same time helping to strengthen the programs and services that Printing Industries of America and its Affiliates bring to its members.&nbsp; It is a win-win for everyone.</p>
<p>Talk to your affiliate director, Xerox sales representative, or your peers in your affiliate who are already Xerox customers. Start benefiting from the power of the Printing Industries of America National Buying Power program with Xerox. Learn more at <a href="http://www.printing.org/xerox">www.printing.org/xerox</a>.</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11424#commentsGeneralMember ResourcesWed, 26 Jun 2013 20:11:02 +0000mflynn@printing.org11424 at http://blog.printing.orgWitness the Melding of Minds and Emerging Technologies: TAGA Annual Technical Conferencehttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11409
<p>TAGA’s Annual Technical Conference is where the latest in global technological research and development for the printing and graphic arts industry is presented. The environment here is alive with active discussion on what’s <em>new</em>, innovative, and has the most impact in our industry. If you want to be the first to know what technologies will be emerging and changing the way we operate, this is the forum to attend.</p>
<p>Attendees experience technical presentations from business leaders, scientists, academics, and professionals, and all are full of excitement as new ideas and solutions are revealed after months or even years of development.</p>
<p>Some of the brightest minds in the industry, including students, research scientists, engineers, and the world of academia converge here for three days of dissertations, learning, and some serious networking.</p>
<p>Take a look at what you can expect from the <a href="http://tagaatc.printing.org/">66<sup>th</sup> TAGA Annual Technical Conference</a>, happening March 23–26, 2014, in Fort Worth, Texas.</p>
<p><strong>Innovations That Rock the Industry</strong></p>
<p>Conference presentations provide insight into the future of the industry, making them highly valuable if you want to be an early adopter of the technologies. Presenting companies highlight their research and technology to their peers. Keynotes gather from leading companies around the world. In 2013 the conference welcomed top minds from Heidelberg, Landa Digital Printing, Kodak, and many other organizations and universities.</p>
<p><em>Two types of </em><em>papers</em><em> are presented. </em><em>Scientific Papers</em> are based on emerging science, technology, and the application of all forms of graphic technology and printing processes. <em>Technical Innovation Papers</em> cover topics where a broad technology perspective is needed, focusing on issues that are current to the industry and critical to its development. Abstracts are submitted, and the top papers are chosen for presentation. More information can be found in the <a href="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/taga/2014/2014tagacallforpapers.pdf">2014 Call for Papers</a> (PDF download).</p>
<p><strong>Intelligent Idea Swapping </strong></p>
<p>It’s impossible not to learn something in a room concentrated with intense intellect. This conference attracts a diverse group of professionals and students who come together from around the world to discuss industry innovations. Attendees have the opportunity for unparalleled networking. At next year’s event in Fort Worth, Texas, expect to make connections in both quality and quantity.</p>
<p><strong>Student Involvement</strong></p>
<p>Few other technology-centered events promote such strong student participation. Eager college students conduct research and can present the results of those projects during the student portion of the conference.</p>
<p>These student papers and journals add great value to their future careers and can even earn them awards, as the TAGA Board of Directors judges all student papers. TAGA Past President Paul Cousineau described student members as, “The best and brightest students in our industry and our up-and-coming stars.” Find out more about <a href="http://www.printing.org/page/3769">TAGA Student membership</a>.</p>
<p><em>Learn more about </em><a href="http://www.printing.org/taga"><em>TAGA</em></a><em> and the </em><a href="http://tagaatc.printing.org/"><em>66<sup>th</sup>Annual Technical Conference</em></a><em>, March 23–26, 2014, in Fort Worth, Texas. Read the latest </em><a href="http://www.printing.org/news/11316"><em>TAGA Annual Conference press release</em></a><em>. </em></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11409#commentsGeneralConferencesTue, 25 Jun 2013 20:38:56 +0000mflynn@printing.org11409 at http://blog.printing.orgTest Your Knowledge! Print Master Monday Challengehttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11370
<p>Take the <strong>Print Master Monday Challenge! </strong>Think you know the answers to the quiz questions below? Each Monday, we’ll reveal an answer on our Twitter page.</p>
<p>All you have to do is:</p>
<p>* Follow Printing Industries of America on Twitter (if you aren’t already) by clicking <a href="https://twitter.com/printind">here</a>.<br />* Starting <strong>Monday, June 24,</strong> we’ll post a question and an answer on Twitter each week until July 15.<br />* You can post your guesses and track the questions and answers by searching <strong>#PrintMasterMonday </strong>on Twitter<strong>.</strong></p>
<p><strong>1.</strong><strong>&nbsp; In which of the following places can an ICC profile be utilized?</strong></p>
<p>a)&nbsp; The operating system<br />b)&nbsp; PDF creation<br />c)&nbsp; Page layout applications<br /><span style="color: #ff0000;"><strong>d)&nbsp; All of these</strong></span></p>
<p><strong>2.</strong><strong>&nbsp; What two items must a press operator continually balance on an offset press?</strong></p>
<p>a)&nbsp; Ink and register <br />b)&nbsp; Ink and color<br />c)&nbsp; Color and register<br /><span style="color: #ff0000;"><strong>d)&nbsp; Ink and water</strong></span></p>
<p><strong>3.&nbsp; </strong><strong>A unit of measure used to describe differences in color is</strong></p>
<p>a)&nbsp; Delta A <br />b)&nbsp; CIELAB<br />c)&nbsp; CMM<br /><strong><span style="color: #ff0000;">d)&nbsp; Delta E</span></strong></p>
<p><strong>4.&nbsp; </strong><strong>Fountain solution is primarily composed of</strong></p>
<p>a)&nbsp; Alcohol<br />b)&nbsp; Gum Arabic<br />c)&nbsp; Sensitivity solution<br /><strong><span style="color: #ff0000;">d)&nbsp; Water</span></strong></p>
<p>Could you or your staff answer these questions? This quiz is just a sample of what you will learn in the <a href="http://training.printing.org/page/11112"><strong>Orientation to the Graphic Arts</strong></a> training workshop. Printing Industries of America supports our industry with a variety of in-depth technical training and education opportunities for the seasoned professionals, but we understand that you can’t put the cart before the horse. It’s important that both the novice and the veteran understand the core principles of print.</p>
<p>Why are the fundamentals important? These elements are the “bread and butter,” or the foundation of the printing and graphic arts industry—an industry that is rich in both creativity and technology. New hires and print sales professionals must know these fundamentals to better communicate with each other, and more importantly, the client!</p>
<p>To get oriented (or reoriented) with the industry, join us for the <a href="http://training.printing.org/page/11112"><strong>Orientation to the Graphic Arts</strong></a> workshop at Printing Industries of America headquarters in Pittsburgh, PA, <strong>October 21–24, 2013.</strong></p>
<p>For more on training, visit <a href="http://www.printing.org/training">www.printing.org/training</a>.</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11370#commentsGeneralTraining/EducationMon, 17 Jun 2013 16:42:22 +0000sshea@printing.org11370 at http://blog.printing.org5 Best Bets for Your Offset Press: If you can’t Measure it, you can’t Control It!http://blog.printing.org/blog/11365
<p>In an ideal pressroom environment, nothing would go wrong and you’d get consistently accurate jobs from your offset press. Unfortunately, we don’t work in this imaginary perfect pressroom. As a result we sometimes end up wasting materials and losing time.</p>
<p>Your best bet is to learn more and be prepared to handle problems the moment they arise. There are useful training and education tools available that will help you stop wasting and start earning more profits.</p>
<p>If you wish you had an expert on hand who can tell you how to handle these types of problems, you actually do! We’ve pulled advice together from one of our onsite experts, Lloyd DeJidas, Director, Graphic Services and Facility Manager, Printing Industries of America, for <strong>Five Best Bets for Your Offset Press:</strong></p>
<ol>
<li>When troubleshooting on a lithographic process, first and most importantly, be sure to accurately identify the problem. I see many printers resorting to excuses like “These inks should run on any stock,” or “We don’t have time to test things,” rather than trying to identify the root cause. When you know the problem, you can find a solution and help avoid a future incident.<br /><br /></li>
<li>Determine all possible causes of the problem, such as press, materials, or human error. Ask what has changed and quickly organize your data to verify potential causes.<br /><br /></li>
<li>Analyze the plate scum line and determine if you have the proper ink and water balance. The scum line will tell you if your:</li>
<ol>
<li>Skewing roller is set properly</li>
<li>Metering roller is performing well</li>
<li>Dampening system is even from side to side&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
</ol>
<li>Get an accurate measurement of fountain solution, blankets, and rollers. With the many interactions and variables on the offset press, you need to have the right instruments:</li>
<ol>
<li>Meters measuring p/H and conductivity assure that the fountain solution has been mixed properly and will indicate when the fountain solution has become contaminated and should be changed to avoid print quality deterioration.</li>
<li>A roller durometer indicates when the ink or dampening roller has become too hard, which could cause roller streaks.</li>
<li>Regular measurements of the blanket with a packing gauge will indicate when a blanket has lost pressure due to compression set and needs repacked.</li>
<li>Measurements with a dead weight micrometer confirm that the blanket has been made to proper specifications.</li>
<li>Always remember:&nbsp; <strong>If you can’t measure it, you can’t control it!<br /><br /></strong></li>
</ol>
<li>When a printing problem arises, determine the root cause by testing your paper and ink. These are some of the tests to perform:</li>
<ol>
<li>Inkometer readings measure if the ink tack sequence is correct for proper wet ink trapping.</li>
<li>Grindometer measurents ensure that the paper has been milled properly.</li>
<li>Calibrate abrasion testers indicate that the inks have set and will have the proper scuff resistance and durability that your customer will be pleased with.</li>
</ol></ol>
<p>Studying best offset practices like these will help you take control and optimize your pressroom.&nbsp; If you want efficient hands-on training for offset printing, Lloyd will also lead the training workshop <a href="http://training.printing.org/page/11110">Extreme Offset: Troubleshoot, Control, Optimize</a>, hosted <strong>July 23–25, 2013, </strong>at our headquarters in<strong> Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. </strong></p>
<p>You will learn proven techniques to measure, troubleshoot, and optimize press performance in our onsite printing facility and Paper and Ink Laboratory. <em>Registration is open for this course.</em></p>
<p><em>For more information and resources on offset printing, visit our Center for Technology and Research at </em><a href="http://www.printing.org/ctr"><em>www.printing.org/ctr</em></a><em>. </em></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11365#commentsGeneralTraining/EducationFri, 14 Jun 2013 17:23:17 +0000mflynn@printing.org11365 at http://blog.printing.orgIndustry Trends Report: Part 1—Monthly Saleshttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11359
<p><em>In this <strong>four-part series</strong>, we’ll take a look at how each indicator from the </em>Monthly Conditions Dashboard<em> is affecting your business based on the survey results from the past 11 months. Charts are also provided to show the trends in an easy-to-read format, so you can benchmark your current market conditions with hundreds of other printers.</em></p>
<p>We watch the weather each morning to help us plan what to wear and if we’re taking our umbrella to work that day (and trust that the meteorologist is accurate!). You can find a reliable “economic weather report,” the <em>Monthly Industry Conditions Dashboard*</em>, which is an established industry market trends report from our Economic and Market Research department that provides the information to plan your business strategies each month.</p>
<p>How does it all work? Survey respondents provide information in five principle areas—<strong><em>1) Monthly Sales, 2) Sales Expectations, 3) Profits, </em></strong>and<strong><em> 4) Print and Paper Prices. </em></strong>Current sales and profits are compared to the previous month. Printing prices and paper prices are current month compared to 12 months earlier. Sales expectations are expectations for next month compared to the current month. Respondents are asked to report the directional change of each of the five key indicators (increasing, decreasing, or no change).</p>
<p>See how your sales compare with the industry below. Check back in two weeks for Part 2 of the series and find out where your sales are expected to go in 2013.</p>
<p><em>The findings you will read are based on March 2013 calculations using a net diffusion index, where the percentage of respondents reporting an increase is subtracted from the percentage of respondents reporting a decrease. The net diffusion index provides a simple snapshot of printers’ market perceptions for each variable.</em></p>
<p><strong>Part 1—Monthly Sales </strong></p>
<p>&nbsp;<img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/Econ/MonthlySalesDiffusionIndex.png" alt="" height="291" width="412" /></p>
<p>A look back over the past eleven months shows wide swings in printers’ monthly sales. With a high reading of 47.9% in October of last year and a low of –23.1% in December, and an eleven-month average of 10.8%. This 10.8% sales diffusion index reading is consistent with our quarterly findings of modest growth in 2012.</p>
<p>The latest reading of 36.9 in March shows that printers’ sales generally trended higher in March, so the typical printer is experiencing modestly rising sales. As forecasted in our <a href="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/Econ/Charting_a_Path_2013-14.pdf"><em>Charting a Path for 2013–2014</em></a> report, we expect stronger industry sales in the first quarter of 2013 and growth to taper off slightly throughout the year.</p>
<p><em>Printing Industries of America members respond to the survey to uncover some of the key areas of their business to develop the </em>Monthly Industry Conditions Dashboard<em> from the Economic and Market Research department. With regular updates on current market trends, printers are better able to benchmark their business, prepare, and make more informed decisions to improve their bottom line. </em></p>
<p><em>To participate in the May 2013 survey and learn more, go to </em><a href="http://www.printing.org/surveys"><em>www.printing.org/surveys</em></a><em>. All individual company information will be kept confidential. For questions, contact Ed Gleeson at </em><a href="mailto:egleeson@printing.org"><em>egleeson@printing.org</em></a><em>. </em></p>
<p>Check back in two weeks for <a href="http://blog.printing.org/blog/11439" target="_blank">Part 2 of the series</a> and find out where your sales are expected to go in 2013.</p>
<p>*<a href="https://app.cvent.com/Reports/Welcome.aspx?p=36733370-f814-4381-bcfb-a0dc6b56a005">Click here</a> to visit the <em>Monthly Industry Conditions Dashboard—</em>log in using the username and password provided.</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11359#commentsGeneralEconomicsTue, 11 Jun 2013 16:29:57 +0000mflynn@printing.org11359 at http://blog.printing.orgInterview with Julie Shaffer on the New Integrated Print Centerhttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11339
<p>We asked Julie Shaffer, Vice President, Digital Strategies, about the newest resource for digital printing and integrated marketing, the <a href="http://ipc.printing.org/">Integrated Print Center</a>.</p>
<p><strong>Why did you decide to transform the Digital Printing Council into the new Integrated Print Center (IPC)? </strong></p>
<p><em>&nbsp;“Digital printing” has become mainstream, and today printers are using “integrated” techniques like QR codes and augmented reality. Our transformation mirrors the industry’s in a way—as our members transition their focus to integrated technologies, we do as well. The new Integrated Print Center is the place to educate our members and the marketing industry on all the ways print is relevant and is a key feature in the marketing community. </em></p>
<p><strong>What types of print professionals can find solutions on this new site?</strong></p>
<p><em>Anyone who wants to take advantage of trends toward integrated marketing can find valuable, curated information on this site. If you are involved in digital and want to do more, this is where you can learn how—and the information is all in one place!</em></p>
<p><strong>There are so many resources available through the IPC. What are some of the top benefits our members can look forward to?</strong></p>
<ul>
<li><em>The Learning Center, which has white papers, Tech Reports, and more</em></li>
<li><em>The blog that provides timely industry news</em></li>
<li><em>Integrated Print Forum information for the latest on the annual meeting that explores all things integrated</em></li>
<li><em>PRIME and Test Drive Tools offer training and implementation of integrated marketing campaigns&nbsp; </em></li>
</ul>
<p><strong>If you could describe the new IPC site in three words, what would they be?</strong></p>
<ul>
<li><em>Focused<br /> Content-rich<br /> Relevant </em></li>
</ul>
<p>Discover more integrated print information and go-to resources to transform your business at the new Integrated Print Center, www.printing.org/ipc.</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11339#commentsGeneralDigital Printing CouncilMon, 20 May 2013 17:15:34 +0000mflynn@printing.org11339 at http://blog.printing.org2013 Spring Conferences Leave Many Satisfied Customers http://blog.printing.org/blog/11311
<table style="width: 200px;" align="right" border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><img src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/bia/2013/2013BIA1.jpg" alt="" height="232" width="309" /></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>How do you measure an event’s success? If the answer is by growing audiences and high attendee satisfaction, then the recent Continuous Improvement (CI), Binding Industries Association (BIA), and Printing Industry Financial Executives (PIFE) Conferences, co-located in Indianapolis, were a phenomenal success!</p>
<p>Thanks to the diligent work of many people at Printing Industries of America, and our partners for CI, the Flexographic Technical Association (FTA) and Specialty Graphic Imaging Association (SGIA), and our Affiliates, these events saw record numbers of attendees in April 2013. CI attendance, which has been growing over the past decade, increased again. BIA experienced an even larger increase, and director, Justin Goldstein, remarked that, “one of our biggest goals for the 2013 BIA Conference was to attract a wider variety of attendees so that they could be immersed in not only industry-group-focused BIA sessions, but also well-suited CI sessions.”</p>
<p><strong>Exceptional content for ultimate learning</strong></p>
<p align="center"><em>“Continuous Improvement requires a unique mindset. <br /> It can’t be looked at as just a task or project, but more a way of life.”</em></p>
<p align="center">— 2013 CI Attendee, Russ Palm, Continuous Improvement Manager, IWCO Direct</p>
<p>Any great educational event needs relevant, superior content to keep attendees coming back. These conferences were no exception with knowledgeable presenters, valuable networking sessions, and exceptional plant tours. With a combined attendance of more than 450, attendees reported that they were impressed with the CI keynote speakers. Here is a sampling of what they learned:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Alan Robinson,</strong> author of <em>Ideas Are Free</em>, explained how to put in place an idea system that will generate multiple implemented improvement ideas from each employee each year.&nbsp; He challenged attendees to have at least 12 implemented improvement ideas per employee before the 2014 CI Conference in Dallas.</li>
<li><strong>Mike Wroblewski,</strong> director of Kaizen Institute USA, reviewed exactly what front-line supervisors should be doing every day—hour by hour—in order to sustain an improvement culture.</li>
<li><strong>Jim Lancaster,</strong> CEO of Lantech, a manufacturer known for its use of Lean Manufacturing concepts, spoke about how he changed his leadership attitude, behavior, and activities in order to support the improvement efforts of employees.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<p>Dan Marx, SGIA’s Vice President-Markets &amp; Technologies, also learned that, “innovation and efficiency go hand-in-hand.” As he stated in a recent article in <em>What They Think</em>, printers “need to invest in innovation as a planned part of their business approach and to benefit from the strong benefits that innovation can bring.”</p>
<p><strong>Enhancements</strong></p>
<p>Many BIA and CI attendees took the opportunity to participate in local plant tours and networking sessions for <strong><img style="float: right;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/bia/2013/BIA2013PlantTour.jpg" alt="" height="194" width="260" /></strong>experiential learning. The BIA conference was highlighted by tours of Great Lakes Graphics Association members D.E. Baugh’s and Eckhart &amp; Co.’s state-of-the-art facilities. As Goldstein reports, BIA plant tours, along with peer and supplier networking opportunities, are among the biggest draws for the conference each year.</p>
<p>CI participants got to witness the Toyota Production System in action at Toyota’s plant making material handling trucks for the North American market. They could also tour the HardingPoorman Group printing facilities that boast 98.0% on-time delivery, a 98.8% client satisfaction ratio, and less than 1.0% spoilage.</p>
<p>There were plenty of networking opportunities and a reception at the NCAA Hall of Champions. Many of the networking sessions were combined to offer optimal “bang for your buck” as attendees could connect with other conference goers.</p>
<p><strong>Back for More in 2014</strong></p>
<p>Hosting a collaboration of successful events leaves organizers with only one problem—attempting to do it even better in 2014. Well, check back because we will deliver another round of prime events next spring when you can expect more practical information from leading presenters, plant tours, and networking events. Here are the 2014 Conference Dates:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>2014 CI Conference—March 30–April 2</strong></li>
<li><strong>2014 BIA Conference—March 31–April 2</strong></li>
</ul>
<p>Both events will be held at the Fairmont Hotel, Dallas, Texas.</p>
<p align="center"><em>“Very informative—great to see Lean in actual practice.”</em></p>
<p align="center"><em>“A very valuable conference with great organization and great material.”</em></p>
<p align="center"><em>“Networking sessions are a great opportunity to compare practices with industry peers.”</em></p>
<p align="center">—Sampling of 2013 Attendee Feedback</p>
<p><em>We would like to thank all of our attendees and supporters for helping to make these 2013 conferences highly informative and successful. For more information on the </em><a href="http://www.printing.org/ciconference"><em>CI Conference</em></a><em>, </em><a href="http://www.printing.org/biaconference"><em>BIA Conference</em></a><em>, and </em><a href="http://www.printing.org/financial"><em>PIFE Conference</em></a><em>, please visit us online.</em></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11311#commentsGeneralConferencesMon, 06 May 2013 14:49:09 +0000mflynn@printing.org11311 at http://blog.printing.orgCelebrate Print! The 2013 Premier Print Awardshttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11304
<p>We look at print differently today. Each piece produced is valuable, and attention to detail is critical. You can say that it transcends the physical product and becomes a greater symbol of what our industry is capable of achieving. &nbsp;</p>
<p>This makes the <a href="http://www.printing.org/ppa">Premier Print Awards</a>&nbsp; competition even more pertinent. It celebrates outstanding achievements and recognizes companies’ work on a world stage. The chances that it offers companies, both large and small, from every corner of the earth, to showcase their finest printed pieces have become the annual target for many businesses.</p>
<p>If you are like many printing companies, you have produced some award-worthy printed pieces. How can your company gain recognition? We spoke with two previous winning companies, Offset Alpine Printing and Bolger Vision Beyond Print, about how they found success.</p>
<p><strong>Show Your Customers the <em>Value</em> of Your Work</strong></p>
<p>Showcase the value of print like Dik Bolger, Chief Executive Officer, Bolger Vision Beyond Print, who says they,<em> “continually speak out on the ‘Value of Print’ in today’s market, and the Benny certainly recognizes that value to our clients.”</em></p>
<p>Bolger, located in the Midwest with 200 employees, earned two Best of Category awards in 2012.</p>
<p>Your clients, as well as your peers, recognize the significance of a Premier Print Award. Entering the competition tells them that the work you produce has greater meaning beyond its intended use.</p>
<p>Garth Hackett, General Manager, Sales, Offset Alpine Printing, states that they produced their winning piece to, <em>“demonstrate that print as a medium is still relevant in an increasingly online world.”</em> Showing outstanding printed pieces in this competition signifies that, <em>“through the use of creative ideas, print can create a tactile and effective product of real and tangible value."</em></p>
<p><strong>Recognize Your Team for Their Great Efforts</strong></p>
<p>They say that it takes a village—well, that stands true for print production, too. These companies instill pride in your dedicated staff members by gaining recognition for their combined efforts. <em>“</em><em>We are very proud of this outstanding achievement,” </em>says Mr. Hackett, who’s team won multiple awards. <em>“We feel it’s a reward for the hard work and commitment shown by our dedicated and talented team of staff and suppliers.”</em></p>
<p>Mr. Hackett’s team, based in Australia, won three Best of Category awards in 2011. Additionally that year, the company of 350 won top honours for Best of Show, the highest award in the competition.</p>
<p><strong>Showcase Your Commitment in Each and Every Product</strong></p>
<p>Take a closer look at all of the work you have produced.</p>
<p><em>“A large segment of the work we produce at Bolger involves exceptional quality,” </em>Mr. Bolger states, “<em>and winning a Benny demonstrates to our customers and prospects the commitment we have made in providing the very best in print</em>.”</p>
<p>As you work passionately to create high-quality work, you may find, as Mr. Hackett did, that you already have competitive, award-worthy pieces.</p>
<p><em>“We were surprised but honoured to win the 2011 Best of Show award against such formidable competition in what is regarded as the largest and one of the most prestigious printing competitions in the world,”</em> Mr. Hackett describes. It was so surprising to him because, <em>“it was never our intention to produce a promotional piece for awards purposes.”</em></p>
<p>Each year, we at Printing Industries of America are proud to see some of the finest pieces in the world on parade throughout the Premier Print Awards. There is no other competition in the world where these printers can be judged against participants from around the globe. To participate in the 2013 competition, please enter your pieces online by <strong>May 17, 2013.</strong></p>
<p><em>Find out more about entering the </em><a href="http://www.printing.org/ppa"><em>2013 Premier Print Awards</em></a><em>.</em></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11304#commentsGeneralMember ResourcesWed, 01 May 2013 20:51:58 +0000mflynn@printing.org11304 at http://blog.printing.orgAre the Days of the ListServ Over?http://blog.printing.org/blog/11303
<p><em>This article is contributed by Keith Whisler, Technology and Research Analyst, Printing Industries of America. He also manages Printing Industries of America’s </em><a href="http://www.printing.org/productionmanager"><em>Production Manager Listserv Group</em></a><em>.</em></p>
<p>Eleven years ago I began working with a large multi-facility commercial printing company, and one of the first things they did was include me in the company’s prepress listserv. It was nice at first because, being new, I didn’t get much email. The listserv provided a steady stream of messages to read. Many of which looked interesting, so I began saving them in a separate folder.</p>
<p>As time went on, however, I found the listserv to be a useful resource. It was like having over 100 counterparts instantly available to answer questions and provide support. If I couldn’t remember a setting in an application, I just had to ask the question on the listserv to receive multiple answers. Have problems with a file or project? ­Ask the listserv. I wish I had a dollar for every time someone asked to have an InDesign file back saved. If something came up that I knew was previously posted on the listserv, I could browse through my archives. It was a great tool that our organization took full advantage of.</p>
<p>Nowadays we have Twitter, LinkedIn Groups, online forums, blogs, and an assortment of other social media and information sharing services. All of these have great features and are very useful, but do they replace the good ole listserv?</p>
<p>Twitter is great to get an idea out to your followers as long as it is short and sweet. LinkedIn Groups are a great place to share ideas within a specified topic, but maybe not to get answers to questions. You can also muddle through some of the sales pitches that are tossed in to your LinkedIn Group. I’ve used online forums many times to find answers to questions, but it usually takes some time for a response, so if the answer isn’t already posted, I bail. As for blogs—well they’re good for ranting I guess.</p>
<p>The listserv, however, is specific to a group or organization, so there is usually a common interest, whether it is research for a law school, information to share within the medical community, or questions and answers in a large company or user group. The postings tend to be relevant to the members. This information also comes to you via email. I know—who needs more email? Keep in mind that setting filters is a great way to organize these messages into their own directory, and unwanted messages can be easily deleted.</p>
<p>So are the days of the listserv over? I think not. All of the above mentioned resources can and should be used to help us share and gather information, thoughts, and ideas. It really depends on what you are looking for and how much time you have. Keep the good ole listserv around. It may still come in handy.</p>
<p>Printing Industries of America has a number of listserv groups available to members. Click <a href="http://www.printing.org/page/9683">here</a> to see if one fits your interest.&nbsp;</p>
<p><em>To find out about resources from our Center for Technology and Research, including the Production Listserv, Consulting, and Custom Training Services, visit </em><a href="http://www.printing.org/ctr"><em>www.printing.org/ctr</em></a><em>. </em></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11303#commentsGeneralResearch and TechnologyMon, 29 Apr 2013 20:28:10 +0000mflynn@printing.org11303 at http://blog.printing.orgGetting Real: Interactive Training for Interactive Print http://blog.printing.org/blog/11298
<p>Are customers going to be more enticed to purchase from you if they can see a 3D image on your printed piece?</p>
<p>Actually, according to numerous new studies like one from Nellymoser, novel linking technologies like Augmented Reality (AR) are <em>really</em> gaining momentum in the integrated print marketing universe thanks to the extended uses of mobile phones. No longer a futuristic fantasy of overzealous marketers, AR, image recognition, and invisible water marking are quickly growing in popularity. Although customization and QR codes are still being used successfully, consumers’ desire for more <em>realistic</em> experiences is creating viable applications for these new technologies.</p>
<p><strong>How to Apply AR in the Real World</strong></p>
<p>So how can printers implement AR and other ever-increasing linking tools and start seeing the ROI? At events like <a href="http://www.integratedprintforum.org/">Integrated Print Forum 2013</a>, you will see, step-by-step, how to create AR pieces in <em>real time</em> with hands-on lab sessions that effectively link print to digital content and engage customers.</p>
<p>Joe Marin, Senior Instructor/Manager, Training Programs (whom you may know if you have ever attended a <a href="http://www.printing.org/training" target="_blank">training workshop or attended a webinar</a> for Printing Industries of America), leads this IPF session and has also authored several white papers and blogs on the subject. His skill and enthusiasm get you <em>involved</em> in your learning.</p>
<p>If you are not quite sure how to begin to apply AR, here is Joe to fill in some of the details:</p>
<p><em>When AR is integrated with print, it can link the consumer to online, relevant content or offers. Combining print with an AR scene is typically accomplished by using a marker. A marker is a specialized barcode that is mapped and linked to the digital AR application. The marker is the “trigger” that is placed in front of the smartphone camera or webcam where an AR software application is installed. It is this marker that retrieves the data via an application or Internet connection and becomes the reference point for the AR scene that is displayed on the monitor or smartphone. </em><em>Click here</em><em> to see a <a href="http://ipc.printing.org/page/11079" target="_blank">video where I demonstrate the use of AR</a>.</em></p>
<p><em>AR overlays real life with relevant, computer-generated information. An example of augmented reality that we are all familiar with is how it is used when watching a football game on television. Current game information (yards to first-down, player information, time remaining, etc.) is superimposed over the actual live gameplay, providing up-to-the-second information. Using this example, we can see how AR is used enhance a person’s understanding of what they are currently viewing.</em></p>
<p><em>(Read more on Joe’s hands-on lab sessions like “<a href="http://www.integratedprintforum.org/speakers/joe-marin" target="_blank">Augmented Reality with Print!</a>” at IPF 2013 </em><em>here</em><em>.)</em></p>
<p>There are many successful case studies for AR, including a package printing promotion that received world-wide press. LEGO partnered with an AR software developer to create a box that, when held up to a kiosk at LEGO stores, combines 3-D animation with a live video feed. The result for the customer is an animated, finished toy displayed on top of the box the person is holding. The box can be rotated to show the finished LEGO toy from all angles.</p>
<p><strong>Get Started on Expanding Print</strong></p>
<p>Using new linking technology like AR will expand print capabilities because it allows you to connect with your audience in <em>real</em>, unique ways and engage them in your message. With continuously improving mobile technologies, companies that integrate them into marketing plans will see better results in website hits and profits.</p>
<p>Getting started in this growing trend does not have to be a major investment but can generate valuable returns. There are affordable programs like SketchUp that also offer free trial versions. More advanced tools like Creator from mataio can still only run you a few hundred dollars, which is not that costly when you consider the returns a well-planned and—executed campaign can provide.</p>
<p>Be proactive and train yourself and your staff in how and when to use print-to-Web linking tools. We have many effective resources here at Printing Industries of America, including the interactive AR sessions at <a href="http://www.integratedprintforum.org/">IPF 2013</a>. You can also find white papers and how-to videos on this and related topics from our expert, Joe Marin, on our new <a href="http://ipc.printing.org/">Integrated Print Center</a> webpage in the <a href="http://ipc.printing.org/page/9855">Learning Center</a>.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.integratedprintforum.org/"><em>Integrated Print Forum 2013</em></a><em> takes place May 14–15, at our headquarters in Pittsburgh, PA.</em></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11298#commentsGeneralConferencesTue, 23 Apr 2013 15:28:21 +0000mflynn@printing.org11298 at http://blog.printing.orgNew Market Study Tells the Story of Integrated Print Demandshttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11297
<p>It is no surprise to hear that the printing industry is evolving in the general direction of integrated services and products. If you are like most, your company is already a part of this growing segment. Printing Industries of America wanted clearer insight into this market in preparation for the <strong>Integrated Print Forum 2013, </strong>so we turned to our ownEconomic and Market Research department. &nbsp;</p>
<p>In early 2013, the Economic and Market Research department conducted a survey to address the demands in different markets within the printing industry. The results provide an insightful look into the <strong><em>most current demands</em></strong> for these markets—<em>Web-to-print eCommerce branded storefronts</em> and <em>integrated marketing services </em>ranked among the top 10.</p>
<p><strong>The Results</strong></p>
<p>The survey confirms that integrated print market demands are increasing exponentially, with many of these markets reporting the biggest sales demand increases.</p>
<ul>
<li>Of the 57 companies that answered the question for <strong>Web-to-print eCommerce branded storefront</strong> sales, 82% of them indicated that demand is increasing for this service.</li>
<li>78% of printers that reported offering <strong>Web development services</strong> reported demand increase.</li>
<li>74% of the 46 responding companies reported an increase in demand for <strong>integrated marketing services.</strong></li>
<li>34% of respondents indicated a <em>decrease</em> in demand for <strong>brochure printing.</strong></li>
<li>A decrease was also reported for <strong>newspaper printing</strong> at 50%.</li>
</ul>
<p>What do these results tell us? We can conclude that while demand in the integrated print markets is growing, the more traditional markets, such as brochures, newspapers, magazines, or books, are declining. Therefore, if your company is still confined to these more traditional markets, you are, or will soon be, experiencing a decline in your sales and profits.</p>
<p><strong>The Action Plan</strong></p>
<p>Where does your company fit into the equation, and what can you do to capitalize on these growing markets?</p>
<p>If your company is already expanding into integrated print markets, great! You are in a key position. However, in order to stay at the forefront, you must continually educate yourself in ways to refine your current offerings and branch into new markets.</p>
<p>For the businesses that are not yet into media integration, this is an opportune time to start. We offer plenty of resources to help you assess your needs, develop a plan, and implement profitable integrated printing services.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.integratedprintforum.org/"><strong>Integrated Print Form 2013</strong></a><strong>, </strong>the annual event of the <a href="http://ipc.printing.org/">Integrated Print Center</a>, has essential information for companies at any point in their business transformation stage. Learn in an engaging environment from innovative expert speakers.</p>
<p>Sign up today to attend this event <strong><em>May 14–15, 2013, </em></strong>in<strong><em> Pittsburgh, PA,</em></strong> and find more details at <a href="http://www.printing.org/integratedprint">www.printing.org/integratedprint</a>.</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11297#commentsGeneralConferencesTue, 23 Apr 2013 14:56:07 +0000mflynn@printing.org11297 at http://blog.printing.orgGraphic Arts Students Prepared for a Mixed-Media Worldhttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11295
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<td style="text-align: left;" align="center" valign="top"><img style="margin-right: 5px; margin-bottom: 5px;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/DPC/PGSFJoshBoland.jpg" alt="" height="150" width="100" /><br /> Josh Boland</td>
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<p><em>In our continuing series of blog posts featuring recipients of monetary awards from the <a href="http://www.printing.org/pgsf">Print and Graphic Scholarship Foundation (PGSF)</a>, today we profile <strong>Josh Boland</strong>, a senior with a bright future who will soon be graduating from <a href="http://www.clemson.edu/cbbs/departments/graphics/">Clemson University</a>.</em></p>
<p><em>Josh spoke with us about his focus in the graphic arts industry, interesting projects he has completed at Clemson, and his thoughts on the future of the printing industry.</em></p>
<p><strong>1. What area of the graphic arts do you consider your primary focus (Design, Print production, Digital media, etc.)?</strong></p>
<p>I’ve always enjoyed design and being creative. Having a piece look good and communicate effectively can be challenging, but the challenge itself is sometimes what makes design so engaging and enjoyable for me. I also have discovered a personal passion for web design and development and I hope to apply some of my design skills in that arena in the future.</p>
<p>Overall, I think I would lean more toward the digital media as an area of interest, but the <a href="http://www.clemson.edu/cbbs/departments/graphics/">Clemson Graphic Communications program</a> has also given me a strong technical printing background. Maybe I’ll end up doing cross-media and working with both.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>2. Have you started job searching? If so, what has been your experience thus far?</strong></p>
<p>Yes, as of right now I am a few weeks away from graduation and have been talking to a few different companies over the past month. The experience is strange in a way, thinking about the fact that I’ll be in a totally new environment very soon. It’s certainly exciting and I’m anticipating knowing where I’ll be working. Fortunately, it’s not stressing me out (yet).</p>
<p><strong>3. What will be your top considerations when looking for a job in the graphic arts field? (In other words, what characteristics are you looking for in potential employer?)</strong></p>
<p>As far as an employer goes, I’m looking for a company who is moving forward and embracing the changes that are affecting the graphic arts industry. Printers can’t be just printers anymore, they need to be offering multiple services (which might include wide format, design, web development, multi-channel marketing…etc.) in order to stay ahead of the game. I have a personal interest in the web and digital media; and I’d like to find a place where I can continue to learn more in those areas.</p>
<p>Also, I’d look for an employer that is organized and knows how to keep track of jobs and resources as they come into and go from the workplace. A well-structured business with an efficient and effective workflow system in place I’d consider to be a much better workplace than one that is disorganized with few processes in place.</p>
<p><strong>4. What are one or two interesting graphic arts projects you’ve completed at school?</strong></p>
<p>Over the past two years I’ve served as the president of Clemson’s <a href="http://www.printing.org/taga">TAGA (Technical Association of the Graphic Arts) </a>chapter. Each year, the team works together to produce a journal of technical research from the university. From the initial concept all the way to the finished piece, we are responsible for every step. This year’s journal was a lot of fun to put together, we got to play around with several different coatings including a dry-erase coating that allowed parts of the journal to act like a whiteboard surface. We also did some letterpress work on the cover and some expanded gamut pieces for the inside of the journal. There was a lot of planning, printing and manual labor that went into the journal, and I certainly can’t claim it as my book, it’s our (the Clemson TAGA team’s) book. I’m glad I was a part of it!</p>
<p><strong>5. Have you attended any professional events or conferences? What could organizations that host professional events and conferences do to attract more student participation?</strong></p>
<p>Yes, I was at <a href="http://www.print2013.com/">Graph Expo</a> in 2011 and 2012 and I’ve also been to the annual <a href="http://tagaatc.printing.org/">TAGA conference</a> in 2012 and 2013.</p>
<p>Most organizations already offer a discount to students, which is very helpful given the prices of textbooks. One thing I’ve enjoyed about the TAGA conferences that I think other organizations could implement is planned events just for the students. As much as networking with professionals is very important, networking with students from other schools can also help you get connections (and make some good friends!)</p>
<p><strong>6. How do you see print’s role in the media mix today? What do you think is the future of print?</strong></p>
<p>Today’s media mix is certainly evolving as digital communication channels become more and more of a norm. Recently at <a href="http://www.clemson.edu/cbbs/departments/graphics/treadaway/index.html">Clemson’s Bill Treadaway Print Leadership Forum</a>, there was a talk by Daniel Dejan of <a href="http://www.na.sappi.com/home">Sappi</a>. He talked about how digital media has become a disruptive technology as it has altered the communications market and the way we receive information. In that change however, print can now be used to do what it does best instead of being used to do everything. In a way print is relieved of some pieces of communication that can be better handled by new channels, allowing it to shine even more in the right context. Print will never go away because it is tactile, emotional, engaging, personal, and real. It certainly is not the only channel of communication, but it is an integral part of today’s media mix, and, if applied correctly, can have a powerful impact.</p>
<p>Print can also be used together with digital media to create completely new experiences like augmented reality. I think applications like AR and QR codes will continue to move forward in the future. Print will always have its place as part of the publications market, but, as technology advances, I expect to see more integration of digital and printed media.</p>
<p>Another area I see print growing in the future is functional materials. Printed circuits, batteries, and light bulbs are only a few examples of things that are already possible with print. If (and when) some of these products can be manufactured quickly and efficiently, printing will enter a whole new market. &nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>7. How did PGSF help you accomplish your educational goals?</strong></p>
<p>PGSF helped me accomplish my educational goals both by helping me defray some of the costs of attending a top-ranked university as well as getting me further connected to the graphic arts industry.&nbsp;</p>
<p><em>Thanks for taking the time to speak with us Josh, and best of luck as you embark on your career!</em></p><div class="field field-type-text field-field-blog-optin">
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http://blog.printing.org/blog/11295#commentsDigital Printing CouncilTraining/EducationTue, 23 Apr 2013 14:48:49 +0000sshea@printing.org11295 at http://blog.printing.orgSelling Print—The Tools for Sales and Marketing http://blog.printing.org/blog/11294
<p>We know that a printing organization needs far much more to operate successfully than just printing equipment. It also needs people with creative, business-savvy minds to <em>sell</em> the products. You may not know that Printing Industries of America offers many resources, like great publications, that go beyond technical printing aspects. A number of these resources are tailored specifically toward Sales and Marketing professionals to help integrate print and new media and grow their profit potential.</p>
<p>If you have not discovered the group yet, look to <strong>Sales and Marketing Executives (S&amp;ME)</strong>. Through S&amp;ME, you will find plenty of resources to promote, connect, and learn. &nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Join our Updated Networking Listserv</strong></p>
<p>Will my idea sell? If you have ever wanted to pick some of the creative minds out there, join the Sales and Marketing Executive listserv. We have revamped the system, so it is easier to network with peers. Just send an email to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:telserv2@lists.printing.org">telserv2@lists.printing.org</a> with the body: Subscribe <a href="mailto:sme@lists.printing.org">sme@lists.printing.org</a>.</p>
<p><strong>Learn More about the Print-New Media Mix</strong></p>
<p>Are you using QR codes to reach out to your customers yet? What about augmented reality, email marketing, or creating effective company websites? Our Publications department is flooded with new titles and requests from marketers for more on the hottest marketing trends to integrate print and digital media.</p>
<p>Here are <strong>the top five titles</strong> we wanted to highlight for you.</p>
<p><strong>1.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </strong><a href="https://system.printing.org/index.php?dispatch=products2.view&amp;product_id=6618"><strong>Value of Print Flip-Book</strong></a><a href="https://system.printing.org/index.php?dispatch=products2.view&amp;product_id=6618"><img style="float: right;" src="https://system.printing.org/images/imageThumbs/120_120_120_120_120_120_120_120_120_120_120_120_120_120_120_120_120_120_120_120_120_120_120_120_120_120_6618.jpg" alt="" /></a></p>
<p>Numbers don’t lie. The <em>Flip-Book</em> provides a wealth of useful facts and statistics to promote the truth about print’s effectiveness and sustainability.</p>
<p><em>As a convenient counterpart to the </em>Flip-Book<em>, we’ve recently released the <strong>Value of Print Mobile App </strong>that rounds out the campaign media mix. The app enables access to the most current, searchable data to help you promote the value of print—all at the touch of a button! Visit </em><a href="http://www.printing.org/valueofprint"><em>www.printing.org/valueofprint</em></a><em> to learn more. </em></p>
<p><strong>2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </strong><a href="https://system.printing.org/index.php?dispatch=products.view&amp;product_id=4670"><strong>Best Practices for QR and Other 2D Mobile Barcodes (Brandable PDF) </strong></a><strong>&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>Find out how and when to use QR and other 2D mobile barcodes as part of your marketing campaign. Start by understanding your audience, what motivates them, and your campaign goals.</p>
<p><strong>3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </strong><a href="https://system.printing.org/index.php?dispatch=products.view&amp;product_id=4354"><strong>Marketing4Digital Full Set </strong></a><strong>&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>Do you have a strong understanding of what your business and your clients need to be successful? The vertical reports in this set give digital and conventional printers the information and tools they need to develop new business within 24 vertical segments.</p>
<p><strong>4.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </strong><a href="https://system.printing.org/index.php?dispatch=products.view&amp;product_id=636"><strong>PURLs for Profit (PDF) </strong></a><strong>&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>Successfully combine direct mail and email campaigns to increase your campaign’s effectiveness. Read best PURL practices and valuable user case studies.</p>
<p><strong>5.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </strong><a href="https://system.printing.org/index.php?dispatch=products.view&amp;product_id=794"><strong>Win Top-of-Mind Positioning </strong></a><strong>&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>Are you at the top of your customer’s mind? In this relationship-based business, learn how to create successful sales and marketing efforts. <em>Win Top-of-Mind Positioning</em> offers concrete, real-world examples, making it perfect for all graphic arts professionals wanting to increase their company’s bottom line.</p>
<p><em>Don’t forget, Printing Industries of America members receive discounts on many of our publications! </em></p>
<p>Professionals may also find pages full of great sales and marketing resources <a href="https://system.printing.org/index.php?dispatch=categories.view&amp;category_id=157#ty;pagination_contents;index.php?dispatch=categories.view&amp;category_id=157&amp;page=2">here</a> at the Printing Industries Press Store.</p>
<p>If you have questions regarding our sales and marketing resources, or the Sales and Marketing Executives (S&amp;ME), visit <a href="http://www.printing.org/sme">www.printing.org/sme</a> &nbsp;or contact Lisa Rawa, Vice President, Marketing, at <a href="mailto:lrawa@printing.org">lrawa@printing.org</a>, or 412-259-1810.</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11294#commentsGeneralMember ResourcesMon, 22 Apr 2013 19:20:31 +0000mflynn@printing.org11294 at http://blog.printing.orgYour Ticket to Automated Successhttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11286
<p>It is no secret that the most successful companies are employing automation to cut costs and increase efficiency. You can read about it, and you can listen to presentations on it. But how would you like to actually <em>experience</em> it?</p>
<p>The next Automation Solutions Network Meeting features a tour of <a href="http://www.creelprint.com/">Creel Printing</a>, which recently acquired another industry leader, <a href="http://www.digitallizard.com/">Digital Lizard</a>. You have probably heard of these companies, but in case you haven’t, we’ll give you some of the reasons this is a plant tour you don’t want to miss.</p>
<p><strong>Full-Service, Award-Winning Facility</strong></p>
<p>Creel has a 300,000-square-foot facility in Las Vegas, Nevada, operating 24/7 and providing a full range of services, including pre-media, printing, binding, mailing, distribution, and fulfillment. For more than 50 years they have been earning industry accolades, producing high-quality products, and providing outstanding customer service. The company earned their eighth Gold Ink Award in 2012 for their meticulous craftsmanship in addition to a slew of other printing awards.</p>
<p><strong>Expanded Capabilities</strong></p>
<p>Creel expanded their capabilities after acquiring Digital Lizard in 2011. Already one of the top digital printing companies in the U.S., Digital Lizard brought their own advancements, including processing protocols to manufacture, finish, and ship on the same day; state-of-the-art HP Indigo presses; a full-service bindery; and pre-negotiated discount shipping rates. Digital Lizard also develops automated Web-to-print storefronts to improve ordering, workflow, and reporting, allowing customers to deploy their own portals or improve the capabilities and return on investment of those that exist.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=36eeEIHb224"><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/images/digital_lizard.jpg" alt="" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em>Effective Print-on-Demand system from Digital Lizard</em></p>
<p><strong>High-Quality Automated Equipment</strong></p>
<p>As a combined force, they produce high volumes of superior products and services by employing a facility full of enviable automated equipment and systems. High-tech equipment like the Xerox iGen4 and DucoTech HighLight Color produce quality digital variable prints. They recently implemented a modern MIS system that has taken them to a new level of efficient data organization.</p>
<p><em>This is your ticket to automated success! Join the tour May 2–3, 2013, in Las Vegas, Nevada, for the </em><a href="http://www.printing.org/page/11106"><em>Automation Solutions Network Meeting</em></a><em>. Register now to experience successful automation at its finest.</em></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11286#commentsGeneralResearch and TechnologyThu, 18 Apr 2013 14:39:01 +0000mflynn@printing.org11286 at http://blog.printing.orgLearn About Color Reproduction First-Handhttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11281
<p>If you’ve seen promotions about our upcoming <strong>Optimizing Digital Color from Your Digital Press</strong> workshop and wondered how this training would benefit you on the job, take a lesson from the Publications team here at Printing Industries of America. We recently got some firsthand experience with how color reproduction changes when a job shifts from the offset press to the digital press, and our best resource was workshop leader Dave Dezzutti.</p>
<p>So, how did we get there and what did we learn from the experience?</p>
<p>In the past, at Printing Industries Press we have always produced our color-related titles on a lithographic press because accurate color reproduction is critical when discussing the science and control of color. But over the years most of our titles have migrated to digital short-run production, and our most recent book, <em>Color Printing Excellence,</em> made that transition to digital printing as well.</p>
<p>Knowing it would be printed on the iGen4 production press, our digital production staff assured us the press would be able to handle the color reproduction to meet the needs of this topic. But we did need to do a little behind-the-scenes work to make sure we got there on a few of the more color-critical images.</p>
<p><em>Color Printing Excellence</em> developed from the need to update <em>Color and Its Reproduction,</em> Third Edition, which had been printed on an offset press. That meant a lot of the images used in <em>Excellence</em> were picked up from the original text, and those images had been optimized for offset production. As the editor worked on the layout and proofs for review throughout the editorial process, he noticed there were inconsistencies between the images, such as the digital versions being darker than the earlier offset printing, and these were differences that went beyond the paper used.</p>
<p>We’re lucky to be able to turn to our in-house experts and staff consultants when problems like these surface. Technology and Research Analyst Dave Dezzutti, who is also the instructor of the <strong>Optimizing Digital Color from Your Digital Press</strong> workshop, was able to take a look at our images, troubleshoot and diagnose the issues, and walk us through the solutions.</p>
<p>Some of the problems and necessary adjustments included:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Images appeared darker when printed on digital press.</strong> The adjustments needed here were minimal and involved lightening the image with some middletone adjustments in Adobe Photoshop. Dave indicated that the darkening is a probable result of the GCR (gray component replacement) present in production inkjet presses.</li>
<li><strong>Overlap of color.</strong> In one sensitive graphic it was important that the dots in a simulated screen pattern did not touch. However, despite the editor’s great care, while working in Adobe Illustrator, to allow a reasonable amount of white space between each dot, in the digitally printed proofs, the dots still bumped up against each other unacceptably. Dave recognized this problem as resulting from the trapping that was built into the system. To produce this critical image, he advised printing this page separately, with trapping turned off, and tipping the page in to the book during binding.</li>
</ul>
<p><img style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto; display: block;" alt="" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/images/DigitalPressBlog.jpg" width="501" height="206" /></p>
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<li><strong>Color builds could not reach 100% density. </strong>This same image included a build of process colors (cyan and magenta) compared against the process colors themselves. These colors would have been produced as a solid color on an offset press, but in the digital proof, when inspecting the image with a loupe, the color was not solid. Dave explained that this is because the digital press “builds” color, whereas an offset press would print straight cyan and magenta dots because they are the primary print colors. To satisfactorily produce the image, we had to turn off trapping and, in the right hand image, reduce the density of the individual cyan and magenta to 85% to more closely match the left-hand dots when viewed through a loupe. This allowed the values to be exactly the same, which is what the illustration, used as a demonstration of additivity failure and proportionality failure, demanded.</li>
</ul>
<p>For a team that doesn’t have a lot of color management experience, Dave was a valuable resource. His years of hands-on experience enabled him to quickly recognize problem areas and then walk us through the necessary steps to fix them—easily translating his technical know-how to fit our knowledge level.</p>
<p>What did we take away from the experience?</p>
<ol>
<li>When working on a cross-process project, it’s important to be aware of the restraints of the digital process. Just because an image reproduced accurately on press once doesn’t mean it will reproduce well again when the output changes.</li>
<li>We also have a better grasp of what the terminology means when it comes to adjusting color on an image. The process for “lightening” an image, for example, isn’t necessarily intuitive, and you could end up wasting time making the wrong adjustments.</li>
<li>We also now have a clearer understanding of what could be wrong when color images don’t reproduce as expected on a digital press.</li>
</ol>
<p>You, too, can learn these kinds of practical lessons and more from Dave at the <a href="https://system.printing.org/?dispatch=products2.view&amp;product_id=7031"><strong>Optimizing Color from Your Digital Press</strong></a> workshop, May 21–22, 2013, at Printing Industries of America headquarters in Sewickley, PA. For more information, visit <a href="http://www.printing.org/training">www.printing.org/training</a>. &nbsp;</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11281#commentsGeneralTraining/EducationTue, 16 Apr 2013 16:19:45 +0000mflynn@printing.org11281 at http://blog.printing.orgWhat Are the Best Companies Doing that You’re Not?http://blog.printing.org/blog/11280
<p>We rely on a lot of business products in our industry: papers, inks, presses, computers, and lots of material elements! But one component supersedes technologies—great employees.</p>
<p>The best companies in the industry recognize their importance with devoted Human Relations Managers investing in their employees, hiring and retaining skilled professionals who, according to countless studies, perform better and stay longer with their company. Every day hard-working people are adding greater value to their organizations. They are the faces and personalities behind the products, contributing their skills and passion for their work.</p>
<p>These are the companies who enter the <a href="http://www.printing.org/bwa"><strong>Best Workplaces in the Americas</strong></a> competition from Printing Industries of America.</p>
<p>Here are some winning examples of sound HR practices:</p>
<p><em>“Communication meetings are held on a monthly basis by the Senior Management Team. The plant is normally in full operation 24 hours a day, 5 days a week. However, during these hour-long Communication Meetings, <strong>the presses and other work stop so that all employees can hear the same message from the owners.</strong> One is held for each shift. The meeting consists of sharing the monthly sales goal and comparing to the actual sales, company announcements, employee recognition, and usually a topic employees can be training on. At least once a quarter, we also work in a <strong>team-building exercise</strong> for the employees to complete.” </em></p>
<p>Best Work Environment practice: <strong>MOSAIC, Cheverly, MD.—BWA Winner, 2011</strong></p>
<p><em>“In addition to the benefits of our wellness program, TLP implemented an <strong>on-site dietician</strong> available to all employees—temporary employees included. Once a month, our designated dietician comes on site to meet with employees for 30 minutes each. We’ve had a huge response to this initiative with <strong>almost a 50% participation rate.</strong>”</em></p>
<p>Best Health and Wellness practice: <strong>Tailored Label Products, Menomonee Falls, WI.—BWA Winner, 2011</strong></p>
<p><em>(For more winning practices, see the </em><a href="https://system.printing.org/index.php?dispatch=products2.view&amp;product_id=2446"><em>Best Practices of the Best Workplaces in the Americas</em></a><em> volumes.)</em></p>
<p>Sound like your workplace? These are samples of the high-caliber HR practices that are entered in the <strong>BWA competition</strong>. We recognize the companies truly committed to their workforce.</p>
<p>It is a win-win situation because employees benefit from excellent HR policies, and companies can showcase their admirable practices.</p>
<p>Here is what a few past winners had to say:</p>
<p><em>“At Fusion, we use the Best Workplace win to promote our company in a few different ways, especially for recruiting and to promote the company as a whole. We use the logo on a&nbsp; table banner at career fairs and technical school presentations;&nbsp; display the plaques in our lobby. This gets lots of attention and is a great conversation starter about the company to any visitors, whether they’re potential job candidates, vendors, customers, or suppliers.”<br /> </em><strong>—Sheila Greco, Fusion Paperboard<br /> <em>2012 “Best of the Best” Small Company Winner</em></strong></p>
<p style="text-align: left;" align="right"><em>“We make sure to reference the Best Workplace award on all of our FRQs and FRIs from customers. Customers want to know that the employees are happy and work at a place that respects and rewards them for their contributions. A BWA award also tells our customers that we probably have low turnover. Low turnover= experienced craftsmen.”<br /> </em><strong>—Michelle Waterhouse, Hopkins Printing<br /> 2012 “Best of the Best” Medium-size Company Winner</strong></p>
<p>Does your company take pride in its motivating HR practices? Learn more about the <strong>2013</strong> <strong>Best Workplace in the Americas</strong> program and how it can help your company recruit and retain the best employees at <a href="http://www.printing.org/bwa">www.printing.org/bwa</a>. The deadline to enter this year’s competition is <strong>September 30, 2013. </strong></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11280#commentsGeneralHuman RelationsMon, 15 Apr 2013 13:55:35 +0000mflynn@printing.org11280 at http://blog.printing.orgPreflight Success: Tips for Designers and a Free Preflight Checklisthttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11276
<p>Just as a pilot performs a number of system checks on the airplane before take off, it’s important to make sure that a print project doesn’t contain any serious errors that will prevent it from printing successfully. Preflighting for print production is about examining all of the components that make up an eventual printed piece and comparing them against a checklist of potential known issues. If they “pass” the check, the job can move forward in the print production workflow. If they “fail,” something has to be done to correct the problem before proceeding. It is by default a methodical task that is typically performed by prepress personnel (no one wants to reprint a job because an error wasn’t found in time), but designers should also preflight their work before they send it off to their printers.</p>
<p>Software tools and a checklist are both critical to the preflighting process. Some of the things that a typical <a href="http://www.integratedprintforum.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/PIA-Preflight-Checklist.pdf">preflight checklist</a> helps you examine:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Layout issues:</strong> Does the physical size of the layout match the specifications? Are all page elements there? Was the job created with a professional desktop publishing application? Are bleed elements there? Do graphic elements abut (will there be white gaps between objects)? Are any of the rules set to a thickness of “hairline,” or are they made up of a screen build?</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><strong>Fonts:</strong> Are they supplied/embedded properly? What type of fonts are they? Are they from a valid foundry (i.e., will they RIP)? Were they menu-styled? Has any type been set to a very small point size, and is small type made up of a screen build?</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><strong>Images:</strong> Is there sufficient resolution for the printing or output method? Do the images contain unsightly artifacts? Is the ink density of shadow areas too high for the type of paper that the job is being printed on? Are the images compressed and, if so, by what type of compression?</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><strong>Color:</strong> How many colors are supposed to print? What color space are the images/layout objects? Is RGB color used? Are spot colors indicated correctly and consistently? Which color swatch library was used?</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><strong>Effects:</strong> Was transparency or other special effects used? Is transparency live or will it have to be flattened? Does the file contain layers? Are they all supposed to print? Are there annotations or other non-printing objects in the file?</li>
</ul>
<p>In addition to application preflight tools, there are also web-based preflight and delivery tools and PDF creation and printer drivers that have preflighting built right in. These software-based preflight tools can detect many errors, but some problems require manual, human inspection and intervention. Knowing what to look for is half the battle—that’s where the checklist comes into play. Download a Printing Industries of America sample <a href="http://www.integratedprintforum.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/PIA-Preflight-Checklist.pdf">preflight checklist</a> that can be used by designers or in prepress, feel free to modify or change it to fit your needs specifically.</p>
<p><strong>Preflight Diagnostic Tools for Designers</strong></p>
<p>Preflighting tools for digital files are abundant today, and there is really no excuse not to perform this necessary task. Adobe InDesign and QuarkXPress contain built-in preflight and packaging options.&nbsp;Adobe InDesign and Acrobat have easy-to-use diagnostic tools that can help you quickly assess and correct common print-related problems before sending the job off to the printer:</p>
<p><em>InDesign Diagnostic Tools</em></p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Overprint Preview:</strong>&nbsp;It’s critical to be able to preview on-screen objects that are set to overprint to avoid potential errors on press. Overprinting is the technique often used to create trap areas between adjacent colors in order to prevent white paper gaps from showing up on press. Black text is typically set to overprint for the same reason.&nbsp;With Overprint Preview turned on (View&gt;Overprint Preview), you can see how inks will interact with each other on press. If the preview shows something that isn’t how the file should print, it gives you the opportunity to repair it before sending it off to your print service provider.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><strong>Flattener Preview:</strong>&nbsp;An extremely useful diagnostic tool for checking to see if fonts will be converted to outlines in Adobe InDesign (and Illustrator) is the Flattener Preview palette (Window&gt;Output&gt;Flattener Preview and Window&gt;Flattener Preview, respectively). By selecting the various options under the Highlight pull-down menu, you can preview which objects are transparent on a page, which objects will be affected by transparency, and which fonts (if any) will be converted to outlines.</li>
</ul>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.integratedprintforum.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/InDesign-Flattner-Preview.png"><img class="size-full wp-image-2877 aligncenter" src="http://www.integratedprintforum.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/InDesign-Flattner-Preview.png" alt="InDesign-Flattner-Preview" height="178" width="232" /></a></p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Live Preflight:</strong>&nbsp;Live Preflight (Window&gt;Output&gt;Preflight) sounds exactly like what it is: It can be set up to alert designers to potential problems as they arise, rather than after the design is complete. When an error is detected as the design is being created, the problem can quickly be found and corrected. Live Preflight can be configured to alert you to many common file problems including low-resolution images, unwanted spot color plates, improper image color spaces, and more.</li>
</ul>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.integratedprintforum.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/InDesign-Live-Preflight.png"><img class=" wp-image-2878 aligncenter" src="http://www.integratedprintforum.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/InDesign-Live-Preflight.png" alt="InDesign-Live-Preflight" height="204" width="290" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><em>Acrobat Diagnostic Tools</em></p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Document Properties:</strong>&nbsp;The Document Properties dialog box is a great way to quickly determine how a PDF was created (File&gt;Properties). The Document Properties dialog box also contains other document information such as PDF version, security settings, and whether all fonts have been embedded.&nbsp;The Fonts section of the Document Properties dialog box lists all of the fonts used in the PDF file and whether or not they have been embedded. When scrolling through the list of fonts, if <em>Embedded</em> or <em>Embedded Subset</em> is not listed next to the font, then the font was not embedded in the PDF.</li>
</ul>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.integratedprintforum.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Acrobat-Document-Properties.png"><img class=" wp-image-2874 aligncenter" src="http://www.integratedprintforum.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Acrobat-Document-Properties.png" alt="Acrobat-Document-Properties" height="432" width="432" /></a></p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Output Preview:</strong>&nbsp;The Output Preview tool in Acrobat Professional can be used to preview overprints and separations in a PDF. Here you can see at a glance all of the colors used in the document. Colors can be toggled on and off to show where and how they are being used in a document. Output Preview is a great way to make sure that black text is set to overprint simply by toggling the black channel on and off. If a white knockout of the text shows up when the black is turned off, it hasn’t been set to overprint. If the background color shows up solid, then the black text has been set to overprint properly. It’s also an easy way to make sure same spot color hasn’t been specified multiple times with slightly different names. Output Preview also provides feedback on the color build of any object when the cursor is dragged over that area.</li>
</ul>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.integratedprintforum.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Acrobat-Output-Preview.png"><img class=" wp-image-2875 aligncenter" src="http://www.integratedprintforum.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Acrobat-Output-Preview.png" alt="Acrobat-Output-Preview" height="357" width="254" /></a></p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Overprint Preview:</strong>&nbsp;As with InDesign, Overprint Preview shows how inks will interact with each other on press. If the preview shows something that isn’t how the file should print, it gives you the opportunity to repair it before sending it off to your print service provider. Overprint Preview is turned off by default (both in Acrobat and the free Adobe Reader) and must be activated in the preferences of each application. Select Acrobat (or Reader)&gt;Preferences&gt;General. Next, select Page Display from the list. In the Use Overprint Preview pull-down menu, choose Always.</li>
</ul>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.integratedprintforum.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Acrobat-Overprint-Preview-Preferences.png"><img class=" wp-image-2876 aligncenter" src="http://www.integratedprintforum.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Acrobat-Overprint-Preview-Preferences.png" alt="Acrobat-Overprint-Preview-Preferences" height="301" width="471" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11276#commentsWed, 10 Apr 2013 18:02:29 +0000jmarin@printing.org11276 at http://blog.printing.orgThe Future is Now for Young Graphic Arts Professionalshttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11267
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<td style="text-align: left;" align="center" valign="top"><img style="margin-right: 20px; margin-bottom: 5px;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/DPC/PGSFNickGawrelukHeadShot.jpg" alt="" height="100" width="100" /><br /> <span style="margin-right: 20px; font-size: x-small;">Nick Gawreluk </span></td>
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<p><em>In our continuing series of blog posts featuring recipients of monetary awards from the <a href="http://www.printing.org/pgsf">Print and Graphic Scholarship Foundation (PGSF)</a>, today we profile <strong>Nick Gawreluk</strong>, an enterprising student at <a href="http://www.rit.edu/">Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT)</a>.</em></p>
<p><em>Nick, who has already done extensive internship work with Heidelberg, spoke with us about his focus in the graphic arts industry, interesting projects he has completed at RIT, and his thoughts on the future of the printing industry.</em></p>
<p><strong>1. What area of the graphic arts do you consider your primary focus (Design, Print production, Digital media, etc.)?</strong></p>
<p>My primary focus is within the printing industry. Through past internships with <a href="http://www.heidelberg.com">Heidelberg</a> in Brazil and Germany, I have really gained a passion for business development and product management. A second focus is within the digital media sphere as a “media architect.” The name of the game here is being able to strategize where content should go and in what channels to effectively reach the right audience.</p>
<p><strong>2. Have you started job searching? If so, what has been your experience thus far?</strong></p>
<p>My job search has just recently started as of last week. I have been very proactive and contacted employers all around the word located in over 5 continents. I am continuously looking for job opportunities and maintaining a positive attitude that the right connection will present itself.</p>
<p><strong>3. What will be your top considerations when looking for a job in the graphic arts field? (In other words, what characteristics are you looking for in potential employer?)</strong></p>
<p>My top consideration is that the company fundamentally understands how the printing industry is changing and has a strong vision in place to operate business and services offered accordingly amongst changed marketplace conditions.</p>
<p>I am also looking for an employer that actively seeks out and presents hard working individuals with a proven success record the opportunity to move throughout the company to utilize their skills and talents and reach their career potential.</p>
<p><strong>4. What are one or two interesting graphic arts projects you’ve completed at school?</strong></p>
<p>At RIT I took an intensive 4-month Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification and had a consulting project at a local printing company. The project I was in charge of created the company saving opportunities of over $150,000. This was possible through revising their material flow in the pressroom in addition to placing benchmarks throughout the entire print production workflow to be able to quantify and improve upon continuously.</p>
<p><strong>5.Have you attended any professional events or conferences? What could organizations that host professional events and conferences do to attract more student participation?</strong></p>
<p>As a former president of RIT <a href="http://www.printing.org/taga">TAGA (Technical Association of the Graphic Arts)</a>, I have been fortunate to attend TAGA conferences throughout both the East and West coast. When working in Germany I was also very active in Heidelberg’s events at their world headquarters where customers from around the world visit to see the latest and greatest products.</p>
<p><strong>6.How do you see print’s role in the media mix today? What do you think is the future of print?</strong></p>
<p>As media channels continuously grow, it creates an effect of lowering print volumes in a majority of the key commercial segments. We are far from the age where messages are communicated solely through radio, print and television. The effects of the Internet, social media and mobile are far too great and this is where companies need to adjust accordingly. No longer in a large majority of printed segments can you only put ink on paper and plan to survive. I see print in the future only becoming more creative through innovate VDP and other unique applications to grab the attention of the consumer. It must also draw consumers towards online media whether that be a website or mobile application.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>7. How did PGSF help you accomplish your educational goals?</strong></p>
<p>Through the financial support of PGSF, I was able to spend more time academically developing myself in the classroom and out in the industry instead of working more jobs on campus to pay off student loans.&nbsp; The support from PGSF over the years has been crucial to my success as a student, which I look forward to continuing as a young professional in the industry.</p>
<p><em>Thanks for taking the time to speak with us Nick, and best of luck as you embark on your career!</em></p><div class="field field-type-text field-field-blog-optin">
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http://blog.printing.org/blog/11267#commentsDigital Printing CouncilTraining/EducationWed, 03 Apr 2013 13:30:15 +0000sshea@printing.org11267 at http://blog.printing.orgThe Rise of Robots: Printing Automation Can Be Your Key to Greater Efficiency http://blog.printing.org/blog/11190
<p>From automated tellers to radiology, information technology is helping to automate the delivery of products and services. It’s no different with print—automating the print production process creates greater efficiency and less waste. It is also making many printers more profitable.</p>
<p>In fact, Printing Industries of America <em>Ratios</em> studies have shown that about 25% of printers make 100% of the profit in the industry. One thing that these high-earning companies have in common is that they replace much of their labor with automation.</p>
<p>Would you like to say that you can have a job on press in less than 10 minutes from its order time? Or how would you like to guarantee your customers that their jobs will ship the same day if the order is placed in the morning? If you have an automation strategy, there are plenty of benefits. But before you begin, you need the right education.</p>
<p>Find the tools to help you learn how to implement an automated system. Printing Industries of America has plenty of resources to get you up to date, including events, publications, and webinars. Take advantage of our <a href="http://www.printing.org/page/4327">automation resources</a> like reports, articles, and the Tech Hotline.</p>
<p>If you want to be the best, learn directly from the best. Take part in the events from the <a href="http://www.printing.org/automation">Automation Solutions Network </a>&nbsp;that highlight a company exemplifying best automation practices. Their meetings are excellent ways to network and learn. This May you can attend the newest event that will take you behind the scenes to see automation successfully implemented at <strong>Digital Lizard</strong> and <strong>Creel Printing</strong>. Hear about automated workflows and equipment straight from the company leaders. The meeting takes place May 2–3, 2013, in Las Vegas, NV. Find more information and a presentation schedule <a href="http://www.printing.org/page/11106">here</a>.&nbsp;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.printing.org/blog/10556"><em>Hear from Digital Lizard president about how his company gets its edge.</em></a></p>
<p>You will want to read up on the intricacies of automation technologies before you implement a system. Printing Industries of America offers many titles and webinars on automation through our <a href="https://system.printing.org/index.php?dispatch=categories.view&amp;category_id=42131">bookstore</a>. One of our newest titles is <a href="https://system.printing.org/index.php?dispatch=products2.view&amp;product_id=4318"><strong><em>JDF Workflow:</em></strong><strong> <em>A Guide to Automation in the Graphic Communications Industry</em></strong></a><strong>. </strong>Vital for print professionals and students, this book explains how to implement print automation and what you can accomplish. Get an in-depth review of this title and the importance of automation from James Harvey of CIP4 <a href="http://www.printing.org/page/10732">here</a>.</p>
<p><em>For more on automation, visit the </em><a href="http://www.printing.org/automation"><em>Automation Solutions Network</em></a><em> page.</em></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11190#commentsMon, 01 Apr 2013 14:34:12 +0000mflynn@printing.org11190 at http://blog.printing.orgReaching Your Customers Through Social Mediahttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11184
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<td style="text-align: center;" align="center" valign="top"><img style="margin-right: 20px; margin-bottom: 5px;" src="http://www.integratedprintforum.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/JasonFalls.jpg" alt="" width="100" height="100" /><br /> <span style="margin-right: 20px; font-size: xx-small;">Jason Falls </span></td>
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<p>Jason Falls is a leading digital strategist, author, speaker, and thinker in the digital and social media marketing industry. He leads digital strategy for <a href="http://www.cafepress.com/">CafePress</a>, a publicly-traded internet retailer consistently ranked as one of the top online shopping destinations. He also continues to serve as founder and chief instigator at <a href="http://www.socialmediaexplorer.com/">SocialMediaExplorer.com</a>, an industry-leading blog and digital marketing agency.</p>
<p><em>&nbsp;Jason will be speaking at the Integrated Print Forum in May, and he recently talked with us about social media, marketing, and what attendees can expect from his session.</em></p>
<p><strong><em>What’s the best way for a business with an e-commerce outlet to use social platforms to drive traffic to the site? </em></strong></p>
<p>Draw your audience in with interesting, engaging posts including stories, photos, and questions that encompass your particular worldview. Then occasionally give them a benefit (a deal) for being connected there.</p>
<p>The real answer, though, will vary by industry, audience, competitive marketplace, and more. What works for CafePress won’t work for some of you. What works for you won’t work for a business similar to yours and so on. You have to test and iterate within your environment to see what works best for your business.</p>
<p>Specifically, I’ve seen e-commerce businesses do quite well with sharing imagery of products that links back to the product page. But that’s boring and very brand-centric. I’ve seen businesses do better by generating content that delivers an audience-centric focus (helpful tips, entertaining articles, initiates discussion on industry topics) to draw in those they’re trying to reach, then ensuring that for every 4-5 posts that engage, they offer one that rewards the audience with an offer, coupon, or free item.</p>
<p><strong><em>What do you say to small/medium business owners who claim there is no time for social media interaction?</em></strong></p>
<p>They may not be wrong. But they will eventually lose out to their competition. Social media fuels both search engines and word-of-mouth advertising in interesting and powerful ways. So if you don’t have time for social, you’re eventually going to lose out on the primary mechanisms—search engines and word of mouth—that customers use to decide to buy from you.</p>
<p><strong><em>Does it make sense for a small-business owner to personally spend time on social media interaction? What about if the company has a dedicated person whose job it is to manage the company’s social interaction?</em></strong></p>
<p>It depends on the person, the time commitment, and more. If the owner isn’t good with people and can’t communicate well, please stay away from social media. You’ll hurt more than help. The best bet is to have someone to interact on social channels on your company’s behalf who is as close to the bone as possible. Sure, you can use an agency or consultant, but do they know your business as well as your full-time staff? Your co-owner? You? You’ll need to weigh the options and either have someone on your team learn social or someone on a social team learn your business.</p>
<p>It’s no different than having a public relations or advertising account person you may have used in the past. The more familiar they are with who you are, how you operate, what your goals are, and the like, the easier it is for them to do a great job for you.</p>
<p><strong><em>Are there ways for companies, like printing firms, to directly sell via social? </em></strong></p>
<p>Sure there are. Let’s say you get most of your business from professional services (lawyers, accountants, ad agencies, etc.). If your Facebook or LinkedIn or even Twitter content is hyper-focused on giving professional services providers useful tips on business, time management, etc., you’ll attract a number of those types to your content. Once they come, if you mix in a coupon code or offer on a new product, a portion of that audience will redeem that.</p>
<p><strong><em>Considering the graphic nature of the platform, is <a href="http://instagram.com/">Instagram</a> a good way for printers to gain social media attention? </em></strong></p>
<p>It certainly can be. The challenge will be connecting with and providing compelling images to the type of buyer you have. Instagram users don’t want to see pictures of the latest flyer or brochure you printed. They might have some interest in seeing innovative print techniques, special projects, etc., but the challenge for most brands using Instagram is coming up with pictures that don’t scream, “Me! Me! Me!” Give the audience what they want to see. Hopefully, you can find something that has a connection to your brand.</p>
<p><strong><em>Anything else that you’d like to share about your upcoming presentation at the Integrated Print Forum?</em></strong></p>
<p>The presentation will be almost completely new. I’m putting a fresh set of eyes on this problem after working with dozens of clients, writing two books, and writing about social marketing successes for quite some time. My goal is to be useful. I’m confident we’ll all come out with some new learning.</p>
<p><em>Thanks Jason, we’re looking forward to your session at IPF!</em></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11184#commentsDigital Printing CouncilSocial MediaWed, 27 Mar 2013 14:05:38 +0000sshea@printing.org11184 at http://blog.printing.orgAs Digital Printing Grows, So Does the Premier Print Awards Competition http://blog.printing.org/blog/11306
<p>You only have to read through one industry publication to know that there is a lot of talk about digital printing. From package to commercial printing, innovation in this field is taking place daily. If there were a good time to declare a “<em>Digital Boom,” </em>you can say that time is now.</p>
<p>We’ve expanded the digital print category for the <a href="http://www.printing.org/ppa">2013 Premier Print Awards</a> competition because it has become such an important, growing segment in our industry. Printing companies can now choose from eight, more product-specific subcategories to enter their pieces like On-Demand, Variable-Data, and more.</p>
<p><em>“As a representative for the industry, Printing Industries of America is no stranger to adapting to new technologies to support the needs of our members,”</em> says Lisa Rawa, Vice President, Marketing. <em>“We’ve seen a surge of digitally printed entries in recent years,</em> <em>and it is evident that these printers can really hold their own. We wanted to give them new, exciting opportunities to be recognized for their work.”</em></p>
<p>Did we mention that there are more than 100 other <a href="http://www.printing.org/ppacategories">categories</a> to enter in the Premier Print Awards? According to Lisa, <em>“We want this competition to touch upon every niche in the industry so that any printer has an opportunity to enter and win. Digital printing is expanding, and we have expanded our offerings to reflect this.”</em></p>
<p>This is not the first time we have re-energized the Premier Print Awards to keep the contest relevant and in sync with the industry environment. And with all of the innovation among printers, it will not be the last change either.</p>
<p><strong>Here are the new Digital Printing subcategories for the Premier Print Awards:</strong></p>
<ol>
<li>On-Demand</li>
<li>Brochures and Booklets (1, 2, or 3 colors)</li>
<li>Brochures and Booklets (4 or more colors)</li>
<li>Juvenile Books</li>
<li>Novelty Books</li>
<li>Cookbooks</li>
<li>Customized/Personalized/Variable-Data Digital Printing</li>
<li>Campaign</li>
</ol>
<p><em>Read more about the Primer Print Awards and how you can enter on our website </em><a href="http://www.printing.org/ppa"><em>www.printing.org/ppa</em></a><em>. &nbsp;Also find out about other digital printing education </em><a href="http://www.printing.org/events"><em>events</em></a><em>. </em></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11306#commentsGeneralDigital MediaTue, 26 Mar 2013 14:43:05 +0000mflynn@printing.org11306 at http://blog.printing.orgValue of Print: An Integrated Marketing Campaign http://blog.printing.org/blog/11182
<p>The printing industry is constantly facing challenges regarding its place in messaging, its environmental impact, and its future. As recently as January of this year, Google launched a campaign to “Go Paperless in 2013,” and who can forget Toshiba’s ill-fated “National No Print Day,” announced in the summer of 2012? Both campaigns encouraged switching from paper to electronic communications as a means of protecting the environment. These are only two of the most recent cases. With industry giants making false claims about print, it became clear we needed to fight back.</p>
<p><img style="float: left; margin: 2px;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/images/vop_infographic.jpg" alt="" width="196" height="784" />Printing Industries of America created the Value of Print campaign in March 2012 as a response to false claims about print’s negative impact on the environment and the loss of its effectiveness. This campaign has served as a resource for the industry to spread the message about the power of print and is available in a printed <em>Flip-Book</em>, PDF version, and a mobile app. Our President and CEO, Michael Makin, even referenced facts and statistics from the <em>Flip-Book</em> in his <a href="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/vop/GoogleResponse.pdf">open letter</a> to Google in response to their “Go Paperless in 2013” campaign.</p>
<p>What started as direct mail pieces—including a brochure, poster, and a PR tool kit—grew into a bigger campaign, crossing several platforms. The campaign is now promoted on Printing Industries of America’s social media channels—you may have even seen our #FlipbookFactFriday tweets, which include quick statistics from the <em>Flip-Book</em>. The purpose of social media is to discover and share content you wouldn’t find though normal means. This campaign has reached audiences that we wouldn’t have been able to reach with just a social media campaign, or just a direct mail campaign. By integrating the various outlets available, we have been able to maximize our reach.</p>
<p>The industry knows its value. When you marry the power of print with the efficiency of electronics, you can create an extremely effective marketing mix that is also environmentally friendly. Coming this spring, the campaign will even cross over to television. Printing Industries of America will be featured in a video to be aired on <em>In Focus</em>, a television series on PBS. The video promotes the industry’s sustainability and print’s effectiveness and features segments from Tim Burton, President, Burton &amp; Mayer, and Chairman of the Board, Printing Industries of America; Michael Makin, President and CEO, Printing Industries of America; and Lisa Rawa, Vice President, Marketing, Printing Industries of America.<img style="float: right;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/email/lisa.png" alt="" width="243" height="325" /></p>
<p>Stay tuned for more developments from the Value of Print Campaign by visiting printing.org/valueofprint and be sure to download the mobile app for the latest facts and statistics to support our industry.&nbsp;</p>
<p><em><strong><span style="font-size: small; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif;">Lisa Rawa in a behind-the-scenes image from the In Focus Video Shoot. Lisa stands in front of Printing Industries of America’s latest press, the iGen4, donated by Xerox.</span></strong></em></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11182#commentsGeneralMember ResourcesMon, 25 Mar 2013 16:42:18 +0000mflynn@printing.org11182 at http://blog.printing.orgTake Advantage of the Great Benefits of the Performance Plus Global Logistics Buying Power Programhttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11175
<p><em>Below is a guest blog post from the team at Performance Plus Global Logistics, the newest addition to the National Buying Power Program at Printing Industries of America. For more information on how members can take advantage of the great savings as part of this program, visit </em><a href="http://www.printing.org/buyingpower"><em>www.printing.org/buyingpower</em></a><em>.&nbsp;</em></p>
<p>The year has gotten off to a busy start with an array of new customers for our team thanks in part to our recent partnership with Printing Industries of America. Performance Plus Global Logistics is excited to have had the opportunity to team up with Printing Industries of America as part of the National Buying Power Program. This program officially kicked off in January, <a href="http://www.printing.org/page/11044"><em><img style="float: right;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/images/PPGLLogo_Lo.jpg" alt="" width="272" height="113" /></em></a>and we have already seen great success. We have multiple webinars scheduled throughout the weeks with the PIA affiliates and their members, and we have also fielded numerous requests from PIA members to send more information and details regarding the program and how we can help.</p>
<p>There are a great deal of benefits provided to PIA members when it comes to utilizing the Buying Power Program of Performance Plus to better suit your transportation and logistics needs, all of which have been outlined more specifically on the PIA website and can be found at <a href="http://www.printing.org/performanceplus">www.printing.org/performanceplus</a>.</p>
<p>The key feature of utilizing Performance Plus that we would really like to express to the PIA members is the use of our transportation management system portal. The portal that we use and are offering to each of you at no cost is much more than just a rating tool and is full of time-saving features that allow you to manage your freight and invoices as well.</p>
<p>For those affiliates and members who are interested in the program and have not yet gotten set up, please contact us today so we can send you more information and get you signed up for one of our upcoming webinars. We have a demo account that we can send to you to begin rating immediately. All we will need from you to be set up in our system is a credit application. Once the credit application has been received and approved, we will get you set up. The setup process for our program is as simple as utilizing the program itself. We look forward to working with each and every one of you.&nbsp;</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11175#commentsGeneralMember ResourcesThu, 21 Mar 2013 18:30:58 +0000mflynn@printing.org11175 at http://blog.printing.orgSurround Yourself with Resources at the 2013 BIA Conferencehttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11174
<p>Imagine you are at a conference rubbing elbows with hundreds of people who have ideas and answers to make your business more profitable?</p>
<p>Hundreds of industry executives and suppliers will be at the <a href="http://biaconf.printing.org/">2013 Binding Industries Association (BIA) Conference</a>. The event is slated to be one of the most successful BIA conferences to date (find out why in the video below). We have a lineup of expert <a href="http://biaconf.printing.org/page/10139">speakers</a> from around the industry to provide how-to advice on creating leaner, more efficient operations, analyzing your customer, and improving your leadership strategies. &nbsp;</p>
<p>With a surge of new and returning attendees, along with more than 50 of the industry’s top suppliers, this is the place to be this April 8–10.&nbsp;</p>
<p>We’d recommend you get familiar with some of these <a href="http://biaconf.printing.org/page/9108">suppliers</a> before you arrive and get an idea of the resources they have to help your company. They’re here to answer your questions and show you their newest technologies and solutions.</p>
<p>If you want to really “branch out,” at this year’s conference, take advantage of the unique networking events we have to offer:</p>
<p><strong>Tabletop Resource Lunches</strong></p>
<p>Spend one-on-one time with industry experts who can speak to innovative approaches and products specifically designed to help you achieve maximum efficiency. The companies represented are strong supporters of the BIA program, the association, and the industry, so please make it a point to visit with as many of the resource experts as you can.</p>
<p><strong>Customer Connections: Tabletop Reception</strong></p>
<p>Mingle and connect with the top suppliers for binding, graphic finishing, and loose-leaf manufacturing companies that will have solutions to help improve your business.</p>
<p align="center"><em>“The BIA Annual Conference is the top event of the year for the graphic finishing and information packaging industry.&nbsp; It’s the one event I always circle on my calendar as a must-attend.” <strong>Rick Ciordia, Standard Finishing,&nbsp; Industry Supplier</strong></em></p>
<p>And if you still need a reason to come to the 2013 BIA Conference, we can <a href="http://youtu.be/jy93rr2o_TU"><img style="float: right;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/bia/2013/2013_BIA_Video.jpg" alt="" width="120" height="90" /></a>give you five!<br /> <a href="http://youtu.be/jy93rr2o_TU">In thi</a><a href="http://youtu.be/jy93rr2o_TU">s video</a>, Justin Goldstein, Director, Member Services, talks about what is in store for you at the conference.</p>
<p>Find more information on the 2013 BIA Conference at <a href="http://www.printing.org/biaconference">www.printing.org/biaconference</a>, and network anytime with top professionals on the <a href="http://www.linkedin.com/groups?gid=981247&amp;mostPopular=&amp;trk=tyah">Binding Industries Association LinkedIn group</a>.</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11174#commentsGeneralConferencesThu, 21 Mar 2013 14:17:57 +0000mflynn@printing.org11174 at http://blog.printing.orgInside the Integrated Print Forum 2013http://blog.printing.org/blog/11172
<p><em>In a Q&amp;A with Julie Shaffer, Vice President, Digital Strategies, Printing Industries of America, we learn what to expect from the highly anticipated<a href="http://www.integratedprintforum.org/"> Integrated Print Forum 2013</a>.</em></p>
<p><strong>Q. What sets the Integrated Print Forum 2013 apart from other conferences featuring the printing industry’s latest technologies?</strong></p>
<p><img style="float: right;" src="https://fbcdn-profile-a.akamaihd.net/hprofile-ak-ash4/c14.14.173.173/s160x160/252782_10200321207971969_1869940968_n.jpg" alt="" width="160" height="160" />A. We’ve built the Integrated Print Forum to be different from other conferences, which often feature many breakout tracks and a wide swath of topics. For the Forum, we wanted all attendees to share the same experience so that they can better engage during networking times. That’s why we built a program with short back-to-back sessions, all (with the exception of a few hands-on labs) on the same stage. When a group stays together for two days, very often people develop camaraderie with each other and the presenters. While so many of the topics of this conference center around mobile and digital technologies, the event itself is very steeped in personal communication and learning.</p>
<p><strong>Q. Is there a session you’re looking forward to the most this year?</strong></p>
<p>A. No, I have to say what I’m most looking forward to watching the audience be blown away by the spectacular speaker lineup!</p>
<p><strong>Q. How do the speakers of the Integrated Print Forum set this conference apart?</strong></p>
<p>A. The Integrated Print Forum features a diverse group of speakers who all have tremendous credibility in marketing, business, and commerce—but they’re not the “usual suspects” who are often found on the podium of most other industry conferences. We have author and respected blogger Jason Falls, who’s a huge name in the social media circles—even some of the other speakers are pumped to be able to meet him! Our keynote, Andrew Davis, is a top name in brand marketing, and his book, <em>Brandscaping</em>, which all attendees will receive, is a must-read for anyone striving for success in the marketing services space. We’ll hear from entrepreneurs both in and out of the printing industry, people who know what it takes to start a business and offer solid practical advice to the audience. Of course, we’ve included a few respected and knowledgeable people well known to our members, including the incomparable Daniel Dejan of Sappi Fine Paper. I can say this; no one is going to be bored for a minute at the Forum.</p>
<p><strong>Q. What are some of the unexpected benefits of attending this conference?</strong></p>
<p>A. Since the Forum is right here at Printing Industries headquarters, attendees can tour our great facility and meet our staff—people they may have only talked to on the phone or followed through their articles and columns, like our lab manager, Brad Evans. Then there’s the fun dinner event we have planned for the evening of May 14<sup>th</sup>, when the entire group will load onto buses and head down to Penn Brewery to experience some award-winning craft beers and an entertaining dinner theater show. But mostly it’s the connections attendees get to make with each other, the speakers, and our staff. The networking opportunities at an event like this can’t be overstated.</p>
<p><strong>Q. What level of understanding of integrated media technology and developments is required to benefit from IPF?</strong></p>
<p>A. I believe everyone—from complete newbie to expert integrated marketing professional—will be equally enthralled by this program. The sessions offered center around five overarching themes; online business engagement, business transformation, integrated media marketing, social commerce, and sales growth. If you’ll notice, most of those topics are <em>business</em> related, not technology. Don’t misunderstand, we’ll be hearing about lots of cool technology, like RFID-enabled social media and magazines that contain actual video screens on the pages. But outside of the hands-on lab, the tech talk will be to a minimum—the focus here is on the services that integrate print with other marketing methods, on business growth potential and sales.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Q. What will attendees ultimately take away from IPF?</strong></p>
<p>A. I’d like to think attendees will get a fresh perspective from the Forum. That they’ll be able to go back and look at their business with a critical eye and either be affirmed that they’re on the right track or realize that they learned some great things that could help them improve their business.</p>
<p><strong>Q. In the past, the forum commences with The Morning Show, can you give us any teasers for this year’s kickoff?</strong></p>
<p>A. At the last Forum, The Morning Show featured Michael Makin interviewing speakers who were speaking later in the program. This year The Morning Show will be a little different, an affirmation of what’s wonderful about print, even as it integrates with other media.&nbsp;</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11172#commentsGeneralConferencesWed, 20 Mar 2013 13:24:53 +0000mflynn@printing.org11172 at http://blog.printing.orgThe Gathering of Strategic Minds at Integrated Print Forum 2013http://blog.printing.org/blog/11170
<p>You have only to consider the smartphone in your pocket, the tablet device your kids are scrolling through, and the computer that sits ever at the ready on your desk to understand this fact: digital communication is here to stay. Can print remain an important part of the communication mix today? Of course! For example, did you know that <a href="http://www.nellymoser.com/news/q2_action_code_study">one in ten</a> magazine ads contained a mobile action code last year? Integrating print with digital is at the core of what we call “Integrated Print,” and it can represent significant business potential for print and marketing service providers.<img style="float: right;" src="http://integratedprintforum.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/ipf_logo_footer_140.png%20" alt="" /></p>
<p>Sharing the insights of renowned brand and marketing leaders, social commerce experts, publishers, business entrepreneurs, and printers who are finding new successful business strategies is what the Integrated Print Forum 2013 is all about.</p>
<p>Much like the popular “Ted Talks,” the <a href="http://www.integratedprintforum.org/programpresenters-2/2012-sessions-and-descriptions">sessions</a> at Integrated Print Forum, May 14–15, will be presented in a clear, concise format. Our lineup of powerful and expert speakers will deliver their message on one main stage, getting right to the valuable material that attendees need to know—a new idea or technology, a fresh strategic direction, or realistic tactics for business growth.</p>
<p><strong>With the </strong><a href="http://www.printing.org/news/11103"><strong>recent release</strong></a><strong> of the lineup of presenters, people are already talking about these sessions that will be presented at the Forum:</strong></p>
<p><strong>The Future of Print Is Digital—Andrew Davis, Monumental Shift<br /> </strong><em>Get inspired to re-think current print, digital, and mobile strategies and consider aligning them as a content continuum instead of unrelated initiatives.</em></p>
<p><strong>It’s Time for Direct Mail 2.0!—Joy Gendusa, PostcardMania</strong><br /> <em>The concept of Direct Mail 2.0 addresses all of the current issues that can plague direct mail marketing and replaces them with a modern, integrated program.</em>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>The Digital Frontier: What Social Media Means for YOUR Business, YOUR Customers—Jason Falls, Social Media Examiner</strong><em>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; Learn why social media is such a powerful sales and marketing force and how we can embrace it to drive offline revenues. </em></p>
<p><strong>Business Black Box: A Magazine Success Story—Jordana Megonigal, Editor-in-Chief<br /> </strong><em>Explore how a regional business magazine adopted a new way of doing business and, in doing do, is on the way to achieving the sought-after trifecta among publishers: journalistic integrity, full issues, and bottom-line profitability.</em></p>
<p>Topics at Integrated Print Forum 2013 will include: Social Commerce, Integrated Media Marketing, Online Business Engagement, Business Transformation, and Sales Growth. You can’t miss this event!</p>
<p>Visit <a href="http://www.printing.org/integratedprint">www.printing.org/integratedprint</a> to learn more about the speakers, read up on featured topics and stories in the blog, and most importantly, sign up to attend!</p>
<p class="COPY"><strong>Get Involved Before the Forum</strong></p>
<p class="COPY">Have questions, comments, or suggestions about the event? Visit us at the following locations:</p>
<p class="COPY"><strong>Blog: </strong>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; www.integratedprintforum.org/blog</p>
<p class="COPY"><strong>Twitter:</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; www.twitter.com/printind</p>
<p class="COPY"><strong>YouTube:</strong>&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; www.youtube.com/printingindustries</p>
<p class="COPY"><strong>Facebook:</strong> &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; prnt.in/integratedprintforumevent</p>
<p class="COPY"><strong>Hashtag:</strong>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; #IPF13</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11170#commentsGeneralConferencesWed, 20 Mar 2013 13:15:09 +0000mflynn@printing.org11170 at http://blog.printing.orgPGSF Scholarship Recipients Ready to Make Their Mark in the Industryhttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11168
<table style="width: 100px;" align="left" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0">
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<td style="text-align: left;" align="center" valign="top"><img style="margin-right: 20px; margin-bottom: 5px;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/DPC/PGSFGregoryDeGrossHeadShot.jpeg" alt="" height="100" width="100" /><br /> <span style="margin-right: 20px; font-size: xx-small;">Gregory DeGross </span></td>
</tr>
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<p><em>Today we continue our series of blog posts profiling students pursuing graphic arts careers who <em>have received monetary awards from the <a href="http://www.printing.org/pgsf">Print and Graphic Scholarship Foundation (PGSF)</a>.</em></em></p>
<p><em><em>Our second interviewee, </em><em><strong>Gregory DeGross</strong>, is currently a senior at <a href="http://www.wmich.edu/">Western Michigan University</a>. Greg spoke with us about job search strategies, student participation in professional conferences, and his thoughts on the future of the printing industry.</em><br /></em></p>
<p><strong><em>What area of the graphic arts do you consider your primary focus (design, print production, digital media, etc.)?</em></strong></p>
<p>My primary focus is in print production and digital media, including RFID technology, color management, and quality assurance.</p>
<p><strong><em>Have you started job searching? If so, what has been your experience thus far?</em></strong></p>
<p>I had two internships at <a href="http://www.nosco.com/">Nosco, Inc.</a>, a pharmaceutical printed packaging company in Gurnee, IL. These internships lasted 4 months each, and I have&nbsp; accepted their job offer as a Senior Quality Assurance Specialist. From my experience, industry meetings and conventions are definitely a good place to start your job search. The networking that goes on is tremendous—building contacts for the near and distant future. I’ve had contacts through LinkedIn, which is also a good resource for new grads.</p>
<p><strong><em>What were your top considerations when looking for a job in the graphic arts field?</em></strong></p>
<p>What I was looking for in a potential employer and something I feel all new graduates should be looking for is a growing company, even if it is a new company—a company that will provide health benefits and the opportunity to advance. Companies with multiple branch locations are worth the application process as well. Other considerations would include companies with a variety of graphic positions, e.g., computer design, mechanical prep, production, purchasing, customer service, shipping, etc.</p>
<p><strong><em>What are one or two interesting graphic arts projects you’ve completed at school?</em></strong></p>
<p>I was a part of the 2012 Phoenix Challenge team at Western Michigan University. The Phoenix Challenge is a flexographic printing competition. Multiple schools from across the country participate in this competition every year. My team created labels and packaging for reusable containers and a sweet and salt snack mix. We worked with experts in the industry, as well as new and innovative materials. The most interesting part of the competition was having the opportunity to print on dissolvable label paper.</p>
<p><strong><em>Have you attended any professional events or conferences?</em></strong></p>
<p>Yes, I’ve been to Info Flex, which was hosted by the <a href="http://www.flexography.org/">FTA</a> (they also sponsored the Phoenix Challenge competition). I also attended the annual conference of the Association of Independent Corrugated Converters, which was held in Salt Lake City, UT.</p>
<p><strong><em>What could organizations that host professional events and conferences do to attract more student participation?</em></strong></p>
<p>Students do not typically have discretionary income for travel and lodging expenses, which are not typically paid for by the universities, even if the registration fees were complimentary. A reduction in the registration fees helps, but sponsoring events close by, or at, each of the top graphic and printing universities would also be a plus.</p>
<p><strong><em>How do you see print’s role in the media mix today? What do you think is the future of print?</em></strong></p>
<p>The role of print is not as black and white as it has previously been thought to be. I’m sure others have said that before, but what I mean is that print is considered graphic reproduction. Printing surfaces are not always from trees. Good organizations and profitable businesses purchase new equipment to keep up with the cost-effective needs of the consumer/client. If a trend in marketing and promotions calls for customers to purchase printed hats, bottles, or reusable bags, print producers need to figure out how to get those jobs, too.</p>
<p><em>Thanks for speaking with us Greg, and good luck as you begin your career!</em></p><div class="field field-type-text field-field-blog-optin">
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Yes </div>
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http://blog.printing.org/blog/11168#commentsDigital Printing CouncilTraining/EducationTue, 19 Mar 2013 17:35:50 +0000sshea@printing.org11168 at http://blog.printing.orgCreating Standard Work: Get Your Company on the Lean Path to Improvementhttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11160
<p><em>This blog was adapted from an article by Manoj Ramachandran, Operations Manager, Label World, who has more than a decade of experience as a lean operations practitioner. He has gained his insight through experience in many different industries, including printing, aviation, and health care. He is also a certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt and PMP. Mr. Ramachandran will present on Standard Work at the </em><a href="http://ci.printing.org/"><em>2013 Continuous Improvement Conference</em></a><em>, April 7–10, in Indianapolis, Indiana. </em></p>
<p><a href="http://blog.printing.org/blog/11118">Implementing a Lean manufacturing plan</a> can be like composing a symphony: getting all of the intricate details working together harmoniously requires not only attention to minute detail, but also an overall vision of the project. However, you can lay an integral piece of a Lean foundation and put a <strong>Standard Work</strong> process in place. Standardizing your work methods will set you on a positively evolving pathway to better workflow and operational excellence. But you have to have the right plan supported and firmly in place.</p>
<p>The method of <strong>Standard Work</strong>or “<em>The documentation and application of the best practices of a manufacturing process,” </em>can be focused to three parts: <strong><em>Creation, Implementation, </em></strong>and <strong><em>Sustenance. </em></strong></p>
<p><em>Find a glossary of Lean and related terms </em><a href="http://ci.printing.org/page/6626"><em>here</em></a><em>. </em></p>
<p><strong>Create: Identifying where Standard Work Is Necessary<a href="http://ci.printing.org/"><img style="float: right;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/conferences/ci/2013/2013_CI_LOGO.png" alt="" width="216" height="206" /></a></strong></p>
<p>Ask the question, “What processes would benefit most from standardization?” Take a look at your value stream map and confer with the team or department that performs the work and, therefore, owns the process. Be sure to review the process with the equipment operators—their input will help a great deal in ensuring buy-in and continually improving the process. Finally, analyze the process to identify waste sources using tools like takt time, sequence of activities, and inventory levels.</p>
<p><strong>Implement: Making the Process Known</strong></p>
<p>For your standard work process to be effective, make it available and understandable to all. Place images of the work sequences close to the work site in graphical, easy-to-follow terms. This will not only set the standard but also act as a grading tool as well as a training tool for new employees.</p>
<p><strong>Sustain: Ensuring Compliance</strong></p>
<p>The team performing the work should be responsible for auditing the standardized process once it is in place. Supervisors and operators will track and determine if the process is being followed and, if not, determine <em>why</em>. Perhaps someone has found a better way to perform the process and can make suggestions for change. The end goal is <em>improvement,</em> not strictly maintaining a stated process.</p>
<p><em>Want to learn more about Standard Work and implementing a Lean manufacturing program? We have great resources for you! </em></p>
<ul>
<li><em>Complimentary </em><a href="http://ci.printing.org/page/6624"><em>Articles</em></a><em>, </em><a href="http://ci.printing.org/page/6626"><em>Glossary of Lean and Related Terms</em></a><em>,<br />and the </em><a href="http://www.cvent.com/d/3cqwxr"><em>Lean Manufacturing Assessment Tool</em></a><em>. </em></li>
<li><em>CI </em><a href="http://ci.printing.org/page/6609"><em>resources</em></a><em> page for valuable information like <strong>Article Collections, Books, </strong>and<strong>Webinars</strong> </em></li>
<li><a href="http://ci.printing.org/"><em>The 2013 Continuous Improvement Conference</em></a><em><br />April 7–10, 2013 in Indianapolis, Indiana</em></li>
</ul>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11160#commentsGeneralConferencesWed, 13 Mar 2013 13:11:30 +0000mflynn@printing.org11160 at http://blog.printing.orgNew Generation of Graphic Arts Professionals Entering the Job Markethttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11159
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<td style="text-align: left;" align="center" valign="top"><img style="margin-right: 20px; margin-bottom: 5px;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/DPC/PGSFBrittanyBolenbaughHeadShot.JPG" alt="" width="98" height="118" /><br /> <span style="margin-right: 20px; font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Brittany Bolenbaugh</span>&nbsp;</span></td>
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<p><em>It's no secret that printers are always on the lookout for enterprising young professionals who can help their companies stay ahead of the curve in a <em>constantly</em> evolving industry. That's why, over the next several weeks, we’ll be profiling some talented students who are about to enter the workforce. </em></p>
<p><em>All of the students we're profiling <em>have received monetary awards from the <a href="http://www.printing.org/pgsf">Print and Graphic Scholarship Foundation (PGSF)</a>,</em> a not-for-profit, private, industry-directed organization that dispenses undergraduate college scholarships and graduate fellowship assistance to talented men and women interested in graphic communication careers. Housed under the same roof as Printing Industries of America, PGSF has coordinated the printing industry's largest scholarship program since its inception in 1956. </em></p>
<p><em>Our first interviewee, </em><em><strong>Brittany Bolenbaugh</strong>, is currently a senior at <a href="http://cms.bsu.edu/">Ball State University</a>. Brittany was kind enough to share with us a little bit about her university experience, her goals for a graphic arts career, and her thoughts on the future of the industry.<br /></em></p>
<p><strong><em>1. What area of the graphic arts do you consider your primary focus (design, print production, digital media, etc.)?</em></strong></p>
<p>I would say that my primary focus in the graphic arts would be the design as I have a great passion and love for being creative. Although through my classes at Ball State University and my experiences I have grown to love all aspects of the graphic arts.</p>
<p><strong><em>2. Have you started job searching? If so, what has been your experience?</em></strong></p>
<p>I have begun the job search since I will be graduating this May and I have found that my school career center and professors have been my biggest resource. I have had many opportunities to pursue and I just hope that I am able to find the right one for me.</p>
<p><strong><em>3. What will be your top considerations when looking for a job in the graphic arts field? (In other words, what characteristics are you looking for in potential employer?)</em></strong></p>
<p>As I look for a job in the graphic arts field, it is important to me that I come into a position where I can not only utilize my skill sets, but also enhance them and grow with a company. It is important to me to have that opportunity to move forward and gain responsibility as I further my career.</p>
<p><strong><em>4. What are one or two interesting graphic arts projects you’ve completed at school?</em></strong></p>
<p>There are so many! I love to create things and learn new techniques, but I think the process that was the most fun to learn and explore was screen-printing. There are so many possibilities with screen-printing that I wish I had time to do even more with it. I also have been able to do some really neat digital projects with Adobe Creative Suite, making vector graphics with Illustrator and page layouts with InDesign.</p>
<p><strong><em>5. Have you attended any professional events or conferences? What could organizations that host professional events and conferences do to attract more student participation?</em></strong></p>
<p>I attended the NBM show in Indianapolis, Indiana in the summer of 2011. I wasn’t aware of the show until a professor mentioned it to our class. I had a great time there and it has made me want to attend more professional events and conferences. I think the biggest part of attracting students to these events is enhancing their awareness, either through our professors or promotions, and knowing whether there is free admittance for students, as money always seems to be a large factor in any decision with a poor college student.</p>
<p><strong><em>6. How do you see print’s role in the media mix today? What do you think is the future of print?</em></strong></p>
<p>Print media is always evolving. I know some people have questioned my decision to be in the print industry, telling me that print is dying out with books, magazines, and newspapers going all digital. I don’t think they realize the vast amount of things that are actually printed and used every day from advertisements, to grocery bags, to cardboard boxes, to laminate flooring, and so much more. I think that print has changed so much from what we have known it to be in the past and will continue to make drastic changes in the next ten years or so. Digital printing is the future of print. Everybody wants to be able to have what they need instantly, and by means of digital printing, we can do that; and without needing a minimum of a couple thousand prints to make a profit.</p>
<p><em>Thanks for taking the time to speak with us Brittany, and good luck as you embark on a career in the graphic arts!</em></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11159#commentsDigital Printing CouncilTraining/EducationTue, 12 Mar 2013 18:21:10 +0000sshea@printing.org11159 at http://blog.printing.orgDirect Mail 2.0—Talking Integrated Marketing and Postcards with Joy Gendusahttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11154
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<p><em>Joy Gendusa is the Founder and CEO of <a href="http://www.postcardmania.com/">PostcardMania</a>. After more than twelve years of leading one of the most innovative and successful postcard marketing companies in the industry, Joy has obtained a level of marketing expertise that is sought after for counsel and speaking engagements all over the country. We are delighted that Joy will joining us as a speaker in May for the<a href="http://www.integratedprintforum.org/"> Integrated Print Forum</a> and we recently had the opportunity to speak with her about her business, <a href="http://www.postcardmania.com">direct mail</a>, and the value of integrated marketing strategies. Along with speaking engagements, Joy also regularly shares her knowledge and expertise on her blog <a href="http://www.postcardmania.com/blog/">Maniac Marketing</a>.</em></p>
<p><strong>How has your personal experience as an entrepreneur shaped your approach to business and your relationship with your clients?</strong> I feel like entrepreneurs are "my people"(if you know what I mean)! I know what it’s like to have to make a payroll despite a lousy month and what it feels like to have lay off good people that just aren't cutting it at their job (heartache). We entrepreneurs have a certain camaraderie that can only be experienced. With that said—being that my customer base consists mainly of entrepreneurs—I feel like I really understand what they need and what their pain is. It takes my personal care factor for them to a level I don't see often enough. For instance we just had our third client appreciation event where we had 100 attendees. These folks REALLY want help growing their businesses and are hungry for the information! I love these guys! So, my relationship with my clients is at the forefront; they are not considered numbers in a database or CRM, they are my people.</p>
<p><strong>Why is direct mail still an effective marketing and communications tool?</strong> These days, people are so inundated with online advertisements that when they receive a postcard in the mail regarding something that is relevant to them, they take notice. Postcards are also an effective way to drive people to your website or get them to call your business—they get people to reach out for more information about your products and services. Plus there are loads of businesses out there that folks are not searching for online—direct mail is a GREAT way to enlighten the market and truly target. This cannot be done with paid search to the same degree. <iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/eX_xDVYyHXQ?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" height="360" width="640"></iframe></p>
<p><em>In the video above, Joy shares the 10 elements of a successful postcard.</em></p>
<p><strong>What are the main benefits of an integrated marketing strategy?</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>They hit the prospect from many channels.</li>
<li>Prospects see the message over and over and you get the <a href="http://www.postcardmania.com/blog/2013/02/direct-mail-marketing-faq-why-do-i-need-to-do-repeat-mailings-video/">benefit of repetition</a> for a low cost.</li>
<li>They give credibility to the marketer/business—meaning when prospects get a piece of direct mail and then also see that business online (or visa versa), the trust and affinity for that business rises in the mind of the prospect</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>What will attendees to your session at the Integrated Print Forum learn?</strong></p>
<p>Attendees will learn the importance of integrating both direct mail and online marketing and how to integrate them effectively!</p>
<p><strong>What do you hope take away from the Integrated Print Forum?</strong> For me personally, I just love meeting like-minded entrepreneurs and sharing ideas!</p>
<p><em>We’d like to thank Joy once again for speaking with us, and we look forward to her presentation at the Integrated Print Forum!</em></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11154#commentsDigital Printing CouncilMarketingMon, 11 Mar 2013 15:37:11 +0000sshea@printing.org11154 at http://blog.printing.orgDigital Printing Issues Solved! Join us for Optimizing Color from Your Digital Presshttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11149
<p>One of the biggest challenges we face in the print production environment is achieving accurate, consistent color. There are many factors that contribute to getting optimal color results, including proper digital file handling, calibration, profile creation, and more. Your solution? We have developed hands-on <a href="http://training.printing.org/trainingsched">workshops</a> that show you how to troubleshoot, manage, and print the best digital color. Our instructors are knowledgeable with years of field and training experience. Best of all, the techniques you learn here at our world-class training center can be applied back at your very own facility.</p>
<p>Join us for a practical training workshop that covers the techniques you need to know to get the best color from your digital presses. Check out <a href="https://system.printing.org/?dispatch=products2.view&amp;product_id=7031"><strong>Optimizing Color from Your Digital Press</strong></a>, today!</p>
<p>Take it from the expert: in this video Dave Dezzutti, Technology and Research Analyst at Printing Industries of America, and experienced workshop instructor, gives some insight into what you can learn about producing more consistent color.</p>
<p><a href="http://prnt.in/Z2T"><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/email/OptColorBlogScreen.jpg" alt="" /></a></p>
<p>Discover how to optimize color output from your digital press in an in-depth, experiential workshop, <a href="https://system.printing.org/?dispatch=products2.view&amp;product_id=7031"><strong>Optimizing Color from Your Digital Press</strong></a><strong>, May 21–22, 2013<em>.<br /> </em></strong></p>
<p>You will leave knowing these essential skills and more:</p>
<ul>
<li>Digital printing and color management terms, techniques, and practices</li>
<li>Standards and specifications—the best ones for digital and how to color manage&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;your digital press to get there</li>
<li>How to troubleshoot color and output-related issues using common desktop tools and how to diagnose digital file problems—<strong><em>hands on! </em></strong></li>
<li>How to get your digital press to print to G7® and ISO 12647-2</li>
</ul>
<p><strong><em>Don’t just take our word for it! Hear the comments from a few of our previous attendees:</em></strong></p>
<p><em>“I found the Optimizing Color from Your Digital Press workshop very helpful. My coworker and I learned a great deal of information on digital printing operations that we can apply to our unique situations here at our facility. Beginner or experienced, this course is extremely helpful and applicable!”</em><strong>—Steve Yoder, Prepress Manager, Schlabach Printers</strong></p>
<p><em>The information I received from attending Optimizing Color from Your Digital Press workshop will definitely help us achieve our color management goals as a company. I am a novice to digital printing, but our presenter spoke to us in easy-to-understand terms and made certain we would not leave the class without a complete understanding of the topic. I have recommended this workshop to my coworkers!”</em><strong>—Crystal Cole, Color Manager, Graphic Dimensions, Inc.</strong></p>
<p><em>This is the only Optimizing Color from Your Digital Press course offered in 2013. Due to the hands-on applications of this course, class sizes are kept small and fill quickly. Register you or your staff members today </em><a href="https://system.printing.org/?dispatch=products2.view&amp;product_id=7031"><em>here</em></a><em>. </em></p>
<p><em>See all of our training workshops at </em><a href="http://www.printing.org/training"><em>www.printing.org/training</em></a><em> under the “Public Workshops” tab. </em></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11149#commentsGeneralResearch and TechnologyWed, 06 Mar 2013 17:36:49 +0000mflynn@printing.org11149 at http://blog.printing.orgCreate New Products and Grow Your Client Basehttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11147
<p><em>The following is a guest post from <a href="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/images/Ken_Macro.jpg">Ken Macro</a>, author of the </em><a href="http://www.printing.org/bookofmonth"><em>February/March Book of the Month</em></a><em>, </em><a href="https://system.printing.org/index.php?dispatch=products2.view&amp;product_id=7017">The Future of Print Sales</a><em>. Below, Ken recalls one company looked “outside of the box” to create a new product and grow their client base.</em></p>
<p>I was contacted recently by a friend who works for a printing company that has expanded into the wide/grand-format market. As a result of product development, they were able to obtain a new client (a furniture manufacturer) by creating the “Good Award”—a small Grammy-like desktop award custom-printed for the company to distribute to employees who have gone above and beyond their assigned roles by helping out their colleagues.</p>
<p>The awards were ganged up on a wide-format printer, mounted to foamcore, and then cut out using a Kongsberg cutting table. A crosspiece is slotted at the base of the award to allow it to stand on one’s desk, and it sports the face of the owner of the furniture company that says, “Thanks for being so Good.” As a result, the company is now exploring other printed matter for both their internal and external clientele.</p>
<p>The printing company’s sales force has reportedly been able to leverage the “Good Award” into gaining access into other new businesses in their area. &nbsp;The uniqueness of this particular product is that it challenges the traditional roles often stereotyped through the psyche of the potential print buyer. Instead of asking for big volume printing, the salesperson presents a new product idea that is potentially needed—and therefore deemed valuable—by the buyer.</p>
<p>What makes this so interesting is that the buyer didn’t even know they needed this product. That is what we—in the industry—must now do, create products that people do not know they need. They know that they need marketing collateral and, as a result, seek to find the least expensive means in which to cast their message. What they didn't know they needed was a product to assist them in enhancing the morale of their employees.</p>
<p><em>For more fresh ideas and step-by-step guidance on launching new products within your organization, visit <a href="http://www.printing.org/bookofmonth">www.printing.org/bookofmonth</a>. Enjoy a <strong>15%</strong> discount when purchasing this title before <strong>3/31/2013</strong>. Use the discount code <strong>MACRO</strong> at checkout.</em></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11147#commentsGeneralMon, 04 Mar 2013 16:29:09 +0000mflynn@printing.org11147 at http://blog.printing.orgService and Attitudes: Branch Out to Your Customers at the 2013 BIA Conferencehttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11146
<p><em>Does your team understand the value of what “good” customer relationships should look like? In the article, contributed by Leslie Groene, President, Groene Consulting, find out how “bad” customer service can hurt your company.</em><br /><br /> It is interesting to look at the world around me through the eyes of a sales coach and consultant...always evaluating the service of a company's personnel or their sales person. I seem to see and ultimately measure my experiences by asking the following questions:</p>
<ul>
<li>Do they treat all of their customers like that?</li>
<li>Why did they say that?</li>
<li>Do they have any clue what conclusion I come to when I hear that?</li>
</ul>
<p>I had a couple of interesting things happen while on a recent business trip...you decide how you would judge the companies... <br /> <br /> I boarded a one-hour flight at 9:30am out of the Los Angeles area and requested coffee. The flight attendant told me that there was no longer coffee on short flights after 9:30am.”oh really?” I said. He said that that was the new policy of the airline (He did not offer me any other explanation except that I could have Diet Coke.) <br /> <br /> Upon my return home from said business trip, I realized that I had left a small (high-end brand) travel case behind at the hotel. I called and was transferred to the security department. They said in fact they did have the case and would send it to me. I received it via registered mail a few days later with all of the contents intact. <br /> <br /> With the first story, I was disappointed that I could no longer get coffee but more displeased with his “dismissive, snotty” attitude and demeanor. The second story was worthy of a letter to the manager of the hotel to express a “thank you” to his staff for not only turning in the case but sending it to me so promptly. <br /> <br /> Below are some statistics about clients and what drives them away...make sure you are aware of how your service and attitude affect your clients!</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>96%</strong> of unhappy customers do not complain, they just stop doing business with you.</li>
<li><strong>91%</strong> of those who don't complain will share the negative story with at least <strong>9</strong> other people, <strong>13</strong>% will tell more than <strong>20</strong> other people about their experience.</li>
<li>The average unhappy customer will remember the incident for <strong>23</strong> years.</li>
<li>The happy customer will talk about the pleasant experience for <strong>18</strong> months.</li>
<li>For every complaint heard, the average company has <strong>25 other customers with the same problem.<br /></strong></li>
</ul>
<p><em>Want to learn more about improving customer relationships for your company? Leslie is presenting </em>“Who Is the Correct Customer for You and Your Company”<em> at the <a href="http://www.printing.org/biaconference">2013 BIA Annual Conference</a>, April 8–10, in Indianapolis Indiana.</em></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11146#commentsGeneralConferencesMon, 04 Mar 2013 13:53:19 +0000mflynn@printing.org11146 at http://blog.printing.orgUnderstanding Print: Terminology and Workflow Are Keyhttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11145
<p><em>The following is a guest blog post from Joe Marin,&nbsp;Sr. Instructor/Manager Training Programs, Printing Industries of America, encouraging graphic arts professionals and industry newcomers to attend Orientation to the Graphic Arts, April 15–18, 2013.</em></p>
<p>The printing industry is complex and constantly changing. I’ve found that one of the biggest problems for those who are new to the industry—and even those who worked in the business for a while—is understanding terminology and workflow.</p>
<p>Administrative, sales, and even production employees are often focused on their specific task without completely understanding how what they do impacts the job being produced. Add this to all of the industry terminology and jargon and the printing industry can quickly become a confusing place to work!</p>
<p>The Orientation to the Graphic Arts workshop addresses all of these issues and so much more. During this class you won’t just <em>see</em> workflow, you’ll be <em>immersed</em> in a graphic arts workflow set in Printing Industries of America’s amazing production laboratories:</p>
<ul>
<li><em>Be</em> a designer, and create a job to print on our digital press.</li>
<li><em>Be</em> the prepress operator, and understand digital file problems, create proofs and plates. <em>Be</em> the press operator, and print a job on our 6-color offset press.</li>
<li><em>Be</em> the bindery technician, and operate a cutter, folder, and saddle-stitcher.</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F8VeS6Of2kI&amp;feature=youtu.be"><img style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto; display: block;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/email/OGA_video_FINAL.jpg" alt="" /></a></p>
<p>Check out the video above, which provides an overview of our amazing training facility. Also, check out some of the pictures below that illustrate the laboratories used in <a href="http://training.printing.org/page/11112">Orientation to the Graphic Arts</a>.</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11145#commentsGeneralResearch and TechnologyFri, 01 Mar 2013 17:43:35 +0000mflynn@printing.org11145 at http://blog.printing.orgAssimilate or Die—CustomXM's Real-life Transformation Storyhttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11143
<p><em>We recently had the opportunity to speak with Paul Strack, President of <a href="http://www.customxm.com/">CustomXM</a>, about how his company has dealt with the rapid transformations in the printing industry. CustomXM, formerly Custom Printing Company, is a family-owned operation in North Little Rock, Arkansas that has successfully transitioned from a traditional offset printing company to a provider of integrated printing and marketing services. Paul will be one of the speakers at the 2013 Integrated Print Forum in May, where he’ll share the story of his company’s successful transition.</em></p>
<p><strong>When and why did the company change its name? Do you still consider yourself a "printer" today?</strong></p>
<p>The name change occurred in 2007/2008. Our company had been evolving over the years and we wanted to highlight more of our new capabilities. Based on where we thought the industry and our work was going, we felt that we needed to communicate our ability to provide cross-media marketing. Print is still the main engine driving our company and it makes up probably 30-40% of our revenue. However, we are seeing significant growth in other areas like fulfillment and marketing services.</p>
<p><strong>How did your existing customers react to the name change? Did the new name help in attracting new customers?</strong></p>
<p>It’s funny because existing customers were somewhat confused when they received their invoices and the company name and logo had changed. In hindsight, perhaps we could have provided more advance communication about the change. But in a way the change was a door opening opportunity, because it gave us a chance to explain to existing customers that we could do more than they thought.</p>
<p>I think new customers started to become aware of our marketing services when we got involved in social media. Whether it was <a href="http://www.twitter.com/customxm">Twitter</a> or <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/CustomXM/212622161966">Facebook</a>, it opened us up to a whole new audience who didn’t know us from our “print-only” days. At first, I handled most of the social media outreach. But recently one of our newer hires (a sales rep) has gotten involved on Twitter and Facebook.</p>
<p><strong>How has your work changed over the past five years?</strong></p>
<p>We’ve been doing more and more integrated campaigns for clients. These are primarily direct mail campaigns that incorporate PURLs, landing pages, emails, and social media. We have seen quite a bit of growth in these campaigns over the last two years. Early on, it seemed like we were doing more one-off campaigns for clients. But I felt that this defeated the purpose, because one of the strengths of integrated marketing campaigns is that you gather information about your clients’ customers, which in turn allows you to refine the process in subsequent campaigns. Over the past few years, we have had success with providing multiple campaigns for individual customers.</p>
<p><strong>What are some of the most interesting projects you’ve worked on in the last few years?</strong> We’ve recently started to employ augmented reality technology in some of our campaigns. We use a version of the <a href="www.aurasma.com">Aurasma</a> platform that is skinned with our logo. We call it VReal.</p>
<p><iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/wnYZsSOmUYM?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" width="640" height="360"></iframe></p>
<p>One memorable VReal application was for a medical company’s trade show booth. A printed piece at the client’s booth had a trigger that, when scanned, brought up a 3D image of a larynx.</p>
<p>We’ve also used VReal for a recruitment campaign for a college. When prospective students scanned the printed mail piece they received, it took them to a fun video of the normally reserved college president screaming while going down a zip line. The idea behind the campaign was “the college can transform you, just look what it did to the president.”</p>
<p>Finally, another unique project we’ve been involved with is <a href="http://www.katv.com/story/19788638/new-virtual-shopping-experience-at-mccain-mall">The Wall at McCain Mall</a>. Mobile shopping via smartphones is on the rise and continues to grow. So we built The Wall at McCain Mall, which combines mobile technology, QR codes, and retail shopping in Arkansas’s largest indoor mall.</p>
<p><iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/zF78c4b9GaI?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" width="640" height="360"></iframe></p>
<p><strong>What are some of the challenges with integrating new media technologies in your print business?</strong></p>
<p>There’s a learning curve of course. But there are plenty of providers, and we put in the work to find the ones that are right for us in terms of functionality, complexity, and price. I mentioned that we use Aurasma for augmented reality. We’re also licensed users of <a href="http://www.mindfireinc.com/">MindFire</a> for PURLs. You need a bit of technical competence to work with these solutions, but they aren’t overly complicated in my opinion.</p>
<p>When we first began to transition our business, I did a lot of the work for the campaigns myself. Gradually we’ve trained other team members for these roles. One of the individuals responsible for our digital printing work also does a lot of our PURL design. If it’s heavy HTML work we’ll outsource that. As a legacy printing company, I know I need to look for and find younger talent who can use the new technology.</p>
<p><strong>Do you have any advice for other printers looking to offer integrated marketing campaigns?</strong></p>
<p>I would say make sure you can do it for yourself first. Run a few campaigns promoting your own business before you try to do it for a client. For example, we do a series of learning lunches for our clients and we’ve been marketing them using integrated campaigns.</p>
<p><em>Thanks for sharing CustomXM's story with us Paul! We look forward to hearing you speak at the Integrated Print Forum!</em></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11143#commentsDigital Printing CouncilIntegrated ServicesThu, 28 Feb 2013 20:28:39 +0000sshea@printing.org11143 at http://blog.printing.orgOffice Machines Vs. Production Presseshttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11139
<p>We recently posed the following question to the members of our <a href="http://www.linkedin.com/groups/Digital-Printing-Council-148422/about">LinkedIn group (Digital Printing Council)</a>: How do you distinguish between “convenience printing” or office digital copying equipment and “production” digital presses. In our post, we asked if anyone made this distinction solely on the basis of speed or pages per minute (PPM). We received a couple of in-depth responses that explained why simple PPM is not an effective means of distinguishing production equipment from office equipment.</p>
<p><strong>John Conley, Vice President Commercial Print and Publishing, Xerox Corporation</strong></p>
<p>The nomenclature of "production" versus "office is not driven by speed. It is driven by durability. Equipment that goes into a production environment needs to have the ability be up and running for the time frame the associated printer has designated as his working production period. This could be one, two, or three shifts. A production piece of equipment must be able to run billable work at rated speed over a sustained period of time with predictable outcomes and for the economic life of the equipment. A 100 PPM machine that is not built to produce 2.5 million+ pages a month of billable output over the 5 or more years of expected product life would not be a production device. <br /> <br /> Said another way, office equipment is used on demand. It is not scheduled and has an expected usage of the average office work day, which is usually 8 to 10 hours and not potentially three 8 hour shifts as you could have in a production plant.</p>
<p><strong>Karen Kimerer, Business Development Consultant, Xerox Corporation</strong></p>
<p>I agree with John, PPM is not a qualifier. The question isn’t how many pages it can print over a minute, hour, or shift; it’s how many pages it can print over the course of a month—pages that may be unique job to job and that require make-ready and finishing. Along that line, a production press is differentiated by registration—image to page registration as well as front to back registration. Without consistent registration the print can’t be finished and subsequently becomes waste.</p>
<p>Media flexibility or substrate range also distinguishes a digital press from a fast copier. With the growth of eligible digital pages comes the growth of media types. a production press will have paper feeding, paper handling, turn radius and fusing elements designed and manufactured to address the challenges of heavier weight paper, synthetics, and even mixed media within a job.</p>
<p>Reliability and uptime that withstand the volumes and various media types clearly separates a production press from high-speed office products.</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11139#commentsDigital Printing CouncilDigital PrintTue, 26 Feb 2013 14:40:29 +0000sshea@printing.org11139 at http://blog.printing.orgStaples Advantage Is Here for Printing Industries of Americahttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11119
<p>Printing Industries of America has teamed up with Staples Advantage to offer an unbelievable cost‐saving program exclusively for its members through Printing Industries of America affiliates. With this Buying Power program, your business is eligible to save on office products and more via the Staples Advantage program.</p>
<p>This program allows you to leverage the buying power of all participating members through Printing Industries of America affiliates. Staples Advantage can help you reduce expenses through our competitive prices on more than 180,000 products available through the proprietary Order.StaplesAdvantage.com® website. The website allows you to place orders, track orders 24 hours a day, check product availability, review pricing, set up reusable shopping lists, and make returns.</p>
<p>You can count on Staples to provide you with:</p>
<ul>
<li>Significant savings—an average of 55% off of list prices on office product purchases</li>
<li>Online ordering, returns, and control on Order.StaplesAdvantage.com®</li>
<li>Hassle-free 30-day return policy</li>
<li>Ability to order by phone and fax</li>
<li>FREE Next-Day Delivery on minimum orders of $30</li>
<li>Reporting capabilities</li>
<li>Members also have access to a dedicated account manager for assistance and special pricing on business machines and supplies, furniture, electronics, bulk purchases, and special order items (i.e., rubber stamps, notary seals, etc.).</li>
</ul>
<p>For additional information or to get started, go to <a href="http://www.printing.org/staples">www.printing.org/staples</a>.</p>
<p>To see a listing of all the National Buying Power Programs, visit <a href="http://www.printing.org/buyingpower">www.printing.org/buyingpower</a>. For questions regarding the Staples program or any of the Buying Power programs, contact Justin Goldstein, Director, Member Services, at Printing Industries of America, at <a href="mailto:jgoldstein@printing.org">jgoldstein@printing.org</a> or 412-259-1806.</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11119#commentsGeneralMember ResourcesTue, 19 Feb 2013 14:28:33 +0000mflynn@printing.org11119 at http://blog.printing.orgDo More with Less—Three Steps to Creating and Maintaining Lean http://blog.printing.org/blog/11118
<p>Many companies say they want to increase their company’s competitiveness and accumulate improvement goals more quickly. They want to maintain higher profits, increase production, and reduce waste. But where do you start?</p>
<p>Lantech, a leading U.S.-based manufacturer of shrink wrap equipment used in the printing industry, turned to Lean Manufacturing over a decade ago in order to regain its competitive edge. It created a successful Lean environment and maintained it, becoming a benchmark for the application of Lean practices within U.S. manufacturing.</p>
<p>Here is Lantech’s advice to other manufacturers:</p>
<ol>
<li><strong>Implement Standard Work and Kaizen<br /> </strong>Lean Manufacturing is a management system born out of the philosophy and practices of the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toyota_Production_System">Toyota Production System</a>—considered by many to be the world’s best manufacturing company—and have since been adopted by North American companies to systematically reduce waste, lead time, and achieve a better production flow. This is a proven model to implement a Lean system.</li>
</ol>
<p><a href="http://prnt.in/ZBR"><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/email/JimLancasterPlayscreen.jpg" alt="" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em>Jim Lancaster of Lantech on the importance of Lean management</em></p>
<ol>
<li><strong>Maintain Your Past Improvements</strong><br /> After all of the effort you put into making your improvements, make sure they last. Stabilize your conditions and focus on continuing to improve. Do not concentrate only on the planning but rather more on the execution. This is done by relying on management to maintain quality as a key initiative. Each subsequent improvement should aim higher than the last, so that the pace of progress continues steadily. </li>
<li><strong>Practice PDCA (Plan, Do, Check, Act/Adjust)<br /> </strong>By applying PCDA principals throughout your operations, you repeat a cycle until you achieve sought-after results.<ol>
<li>Plan: Develop a way to effect improvement</li>
<li>Do: Implement the plan on a small, manageable scale</li>
<li>Check: Review for any variance between the predicted results and the actual conditions observed</li>
<li>Act/Adjust: Take action or&nbsp; modify based on your review</li>
</ol>By creating a standardized management system and a process to continuously make improvements, your company can reach goals and not just fall back into the same old processes that were setting you back. If you are interested and would like to learn more about creating and maintaining Lean Manufacturing practices, take a look at the video featuring Jim Lancaster, CEO and Owner, Lantech. Lancaster will also present <em>Lean Management: Staying on Course with Improvement Goals </em>at our annual <a href="http://ci.printing.org/">Continuous Improvement Conference</a>, April 7–10, in Indianapolis, Indiana. The conference also features a tour to one of Toyota’s largest plants in North America.</li>
</ol>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11118#commentsGeneralResearch and TechnologyTue, 19 Feb 2013 14:12:44 +0000mflynn@printing.org11118 at http://blog.printing.orgAugmented Reality Updatehttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11105
<p>Marketers are always looking for ways to get more from their print budgets. Historically, printers have responded through the use of customized print, and more recently, quick response (QR) codes. One of the latest innovations in print is augmented reality, which allows for the creation of unique 3-D experiences that add another dimension to print.</p>
<p>Printing Industries of America’s Joe Marin has updated a popular Digital Printing Council white paper on augmented reality. &nbsp;This white paper, which is free to all Printing Industries of America members, provides an overview of augmented reality technologies and highlights their relevance to print. New information includes an updated tutorial and additional resources. Members can download the new white paper <a href="http://dpc.printing.org/page/9949">here</a>.</p>
<p>Additionally, Marin has created a series of video tutorials to accompany his white paper. The first three videos of a planned six-part series are currently up on the Digital Printing Council website. The topics explained include how to download and install augmented reality software applications, how to use some basic tools to create and navigate around a 3-D object, and how to trace a 2-D object and turn it into a 3-D object for augmented reality software. Members can view the new videos <a href="http://dpc.printing.org/page/10438">here</a>.</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11105#commentsDigital Printing CouncilIntegrated ServicesThu, 14 Feb 2013 21:41:34 +0000sshea@printing.org11105 at http://blog.printing.orgBig Rewards for Small Printers in the Premier Print Awards http://blog.printing.org/blog/11100
<p>The <a href="http://www.printing.org/ppa">Premier Print Awards</a> are the most highly anticipated awards competition each year. The program is one of the most prestigious international print competitions in the graphic communications industry. Thousands of entries are received from all over the world from some of the best printers in the industry. All entrants are competing to be awarded the Best of Category, or “Benny” and to be honored for their excellent craftsmanship.</p>
<p>All types of printers are encouraged to enter. With more than 100 categories, a company is certain to find one that best suits their needs—including company size and specialty printing. While winning pieces are based on the outstanding printing that was done, one group in particular that has enjoyed success in the competition has been smaller-sized companies. Companies with 50 or fewer employees have been known to win big in past years.</p>
<p>Our awards program offers sub-categories for smaller companies. While a small-sized company can enter any category, certain categories are broken into sub-categories based on small,&nbsp; medium, or large-sized companies, which creates a level playing field for all printers. Such categories include Booklets, Catalogs, Fashion and Magazine inserts, Business and Annual Reports, and Print/Graphic Arts/Self-Promotion.*</p>
<p>Some big winners from the past have been small-sized companies:</p>
<ul>
<li>Infinity Press, Inc.: A Benny winner in the 2009 competition with an employee count of 20 or less.</li>
<li>Adams Lithographing Company: This 2010 Best of Show recipient is a small-sized company out of Tennessee.</li>
<li>Body of Work: This 2012 Best of Show recipient from Sidney, Australia, has eight employees. In addition to their Best of Show win, they were awarded four Bennys.</li>
</ul>
<p>All Best of Category winners are invited to attend the Premier Print Awards Gala Featuring the InterTech™ Technology Awards and web2awards. This event is held in conjunction with either GRAPH EXPO or PRINT each year in Chicago, Illinois. Here, Best of Category recipients are honored with their Benny statue in front of an impressive audience of industry notables. Attendees of this event have the opportunity to network with other professionals and view all Benny-winning pieces on display—even more great benefits for a small printer!</p>
<p>Get the recognition you deserve. Show the world that even though you may be a small printer, you can produce great pieces. For more information, visit<a href="http://www.printing.org/ppa">www.printing.org/ppa</a>.</p>
<p>For more information about the 2013 Premier Print Awards competition, visit <a href="http://www.printing.org/ppa">www.printing.org/ppa</a> or call Mike Packard at 412-259-1704. Enter online at <a href="http://www.printing.org/ppaentries">www.printing.org/ppaentries</a>.</p>
<p><em>*View a complete listing of categories at <a href="http://www.printing.org/ppacategories">www.printing.org/ppacategories</a>.&nbsp;</em></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11100#commentsGeneralThu, 14 Feb 2013 14:05:21 +0000mflynn@printing.org11100 at http://blog.printing.orgPostal Service Pushes for Five-Day Deliveryhttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11087
<p>The official word came out today that the USPS is planning to move to a five-day delivery schedule beginning in August, eliminating carrier routes on Saturdays.</p>
<p>This does not mean that the USPS will be completely dormant on Saturdays. Package delivery will continue, P.O. boxes will be filled, and Post Offices that are currently open on Saturdays will remain open. The package delivery element of the plan is noteworthy, because this part of the agency’s business has increased 14% since 2010. Postmaster General Patrick R. Donahoe stated that the elimination of Saturday carrier routes should save around $2 billion annually.</p>
<p>There is some question on the authority of the USPS to make the move to five-day delivery. Congress previously has nixed the idea in appropriations bills; however, the temporary spending measure under which the federal government is currently operating may allow for the USPS to make the switch without Congressional authority.</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11087#commentsDigital Printing CouncilDigital Printing CouncilWed, 06 Feb 2013 21:03:11 +0000sshea@printing.org11087 at http://blog.printing.orgHigh-Quality—The Future of Printhttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11082
<p><em>Andrew Davis, Chief Strategy Officer &amp; Co-Founder of </em><a href="http://tippingpointlabs.com/"><em>Tippingpoint Labs</em></a><em>, and author of </em><a href="https://www.brandscapingbook.com/"><em>Brandscaping</em></a><em>, will deliver the keynote presentation at the 2013 Integrated Print Forum. Davis, whose research has resulted in the creation of innovative online metrics, will inspire attendants to re-think the print, digital, and mobile strategies that they and their customers employ—and consider aligning them as a content continuum instead of disparate and unrelated initiatives. We caught up with Davis recently, and he was kind enough to share his thoughts about print’s role in the content continuum.</em></p>
<p><strong>How can print help content generators (marketers, publishers, etc.) differentiate themselves?</strong></p>
<p>Over the last five years marketers and publishers have invested boatloads of resources in creating digital assets, and in the process they’ve shifted their spending away from the more traditional print products they leveraged in the past. Paradoxically, this has led to an opportunity to leverage high-quality (and that’s the key—HIGH-QUALITY) print products as a significant point of differentiation in the marketplace. Digital content and platforms are commoditized, they all look the same and the experience is fleeting—that’s not the case with a well-crafted print product. There’s longer engagement, deeper relationships, and even higher pass-along rates that come with the perceived value of print. Here’s the catch—you don’t have long to leverage this opportunity to shift marketers’ and publishers’ perspectives. You need to challenge them today to print something different, something unique and valuable.</p>
<p><strong>What can printers do to convince content generators that print should remain an integral part of their communication strategies?</strong></p>
<p>You’ll never convince people that print will remain an integral part of their communication strategy, but you can show them. There’s a content continuum that begins online—where they can rapidly create, test, and generate content to see what resonates with their audience. The best content—the stuff that generates the highest return on investment—can then be elevated, enhanced, and delivered as a highly valuable print product. This way your digital assets, which have a very short lifespan, build a long term and sustainable ROI. It’s not easy, but it works. Start consuming every piece of content your clients create in the digital world. Find the best stuff and pitch a high-quality print product. I’m willing to bet they’ll be impressed and intrigued enough to buy!</p>
<p><strong>What will attendees to your session learn?</strong></p>
<p>In my session attendees will learn how to rethink the role of print in a digital world. You don’t have to start competing with the rest of the agencies in the marketing space and expanding your services in places it doesn’t make sense. You’ll learn to leverage your past experiences, expertise, and insight to drive higher-value print deals fueled by digital information overload.</p>
<p><strong>What do you hope take away from the Integrated Print Forum?</strong></p>
<p>I hope to meet optimistic, creative, and smart printers who are willing to re-think their role in a digital-first world, without throwing away their primary business models.</p>
<p><strong>Now that the serious questions are out of the way, how cool was it to work for The Jim Henson Company, and who is your favorite Muppet?</strong></p>
<p>Ha! Working for the <a href="http://henson.com/">Jim Henson Company</a> was a blast. It was hard work, with smart people. Working with the people behind such an iconic brand left me with life lessons I still rely on today. My favorite Muppet has always been Grover. His unwavering optimism and cheery demeanor have been my model for business success.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11082#commentsGeneralTue, 05 Feb 2013 14:04:29 +0000kgrady@printing.org11082 at http://blog.printing.orgTroubleshoot, Control, Optimizehttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11077
<p><em>Troubleshoot, Control</em>, and <em>Optimize</em>. Those three words are vital to running a successful printing operation. Without an educated workforce, your press crew may be practicing wasteful activities and not optimizing time and material use. With the upcoming workshop, <a href="http://training.printing.org/page/10905">Extreme Offset: Troubleshoot, Control, Optimize</a>, those wasteful activities—and how to solve them—will be brought to light.</p>
<p>Presenters—Lloyd DeJidas, Director, Graphic Services and Facility Manager, and Greg Workman, Pressroom and Bindery Supervisor—will provide the steps to turn any pressroom into one that will increase job throughput while printing higher quality, more consistent color with less downtime, waste, and spoilage through the process of Troubleshooting, Controlling, and Optimizing. &nbsp;</p>
<p style="padding-left: 90px;"><em>Troubleshoot</em><br />Attendees will learn the skills to identify root causes of printing problems and how to quickly address and fix these issues.</p>
<p style="padding-left: 60px;"><em>Control</em><br />Acquire the skills to control print color and quality by utilizing proper tools and techniques.<br /><br /><em>Optimize</em><br />Get an understanding of how to find and eliminate waste in the pressroom to enable your press’s performance, as well as confirming that it is printing at an ideal, consistent state.</p>
<p><a href="http://training.printing.org/page/10905">Extreme Offset: Troubleshoot, Control, Optimize</a>, will be held three times throughout the year— March 19–21; July 23–25; and November 5–7—at Printing Industries of America state-of-the-art facility outside of Pittsburgh, PA. This workshop has quickly become an industry favorite and is known to be a frequent sellout. Now is the time to make your reservations for the March event. Click on the image below to go straight to the registration page.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.printing.org/node/10945"><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/images/red_reg.png" alt="" /></a></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11077#commentsGeneralTraining/EducationMon, 04 Feb 2013 16:56:02 +0000mflynn@printing.org11077 at http://blog.printing.orgLive Life in Color—and Share Your Knowledge too!http://blog.printing.org/blog/11071
<p><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F4mSowJJoz0&amp;feature=share&amp;list=UU4P6Rvg2XKvqPqzNPV-y2Qg"><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/email/G7_DigitalPlayscreen.jpg" alt="" /></a></p>
<p align="center"><em>What is possible with G7 mythology? Instructor, Dave Dezzutti, explains. </em></p>
<p>Dave Dezzutti is all about managing color. He starts his day with a coffee and a copy of the latest digital printing magazine before beginning his work in prepress preflighting, proofing, and operating several different digital workflow systems for Printing Industries of America’s in-house production facility. He has spent 30 years in the industry and is now a Technology and Research Analyst and G7<sup>®</sup> Expert for Printing Industries of America. So what does Dave think about leading the hands-on G7 Digital Press Operator Training Program this April? He couldn’t feel more at home.</p>
<p><strong>Why do you think color management is so important to companies today?</strong></p>
<p><em>Customers demand that their print provider be G7 certified. Companies can have an edge on the competition by having their employees training and certified. Plus they can save money and cut waste.</em></p>
<p><strong>Before you were a G7 Certified Expert, what type of work did you perform?</strong></p>
<p><em>I was a manager of prepress production for Printing Industries of America, responsible for preflighting, ensuring a smooth workflow between prepress and press, and analyzing any workflow problems. I was also responsible for the calibration of several CTP and digital proofing devices. </em></p>
<p><strong>You are also a consultant for Printing Industries of America. What have you done for printing companies to improve their operations?</strong></p>
<p><em>I consult and evaluate which system will work the best in an organization. By analyzing a company’s prepress/printing capabilities, I make appropriate recommendations to streamline workflow and achieve color management standards.</em></p>
<p><strong>What do you feel is your most important role in your work for the Center for Technology and Research?</strong></p>
<p><em>Ensuring accurate color is very important, and I feel being able to help others achieve this as well really fits into the larger picture of helping to move our industry forward. When I can train others in G7 specifications or evaluate their operations, I know that printing companies value that knowledge and they value the opportunity to be more competitive. I also speak at events like the Color Management Conference where I can address a large audience and talk with printers.</em></p>
<p><strong>What types of equipment do you work with in daily operations?</strong></p>
<p><em>&nbsp;Agfa’s Apogee, Kodak’s Prinergy, and Heidelberg's Prinect PDF prepress workflow system are some of the equipment that I work with each day. I also operate the Kodak Spectrum, and PressTek Dimension CTP systems along with several digital proofing devices. </em></p>
<p><strong>What makes training so valuable in our industry?</strong></p>
<p><em>It is all about knowledge, whether it be new or continued education. I believe one of the most powerful resources you can have is a well-trained staff—and to have that knowledge yourself. G7 training, in particular, is highly effective and also highly demanded from customers. To be able to get that training in a hands-on, experiential way is valuable because you can learn the process here in two intense days and then take that education back to your company and start applying it. It’s like “instant gratification!”</em></p>
<p><em>&nbsp;</em></p>
<p><em>Dave Dezzutti, Technology and Research Analyst and G7 Expert, will lead the </em><a href="http://www.printing.org/events?event_id=95"><strong><em>G7 Digital Press Operator Training</em></strong></a><strong><em>, April 23–24, 2013,</em></strong><em> at Printing Industries of America headquarters in Pittsburgh, PA. Participants will earn a G7 Digital Press Operator’s certificate of completion. </em></p>
<p><em>Find all of our 2013 training events, including IDEAlliance G7 Expert/Professional Training and G7 Offset Press Operator Training Program at </em><a href="http://www.printing.org/training"><em>www.printing.org/training</em></a><em> under “Public Workshops.”</em></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11071#commentsGeneralThu, 31 Jan 2013 19:29:46 +0000kgrady@printing.org11071 at http://blog.printing.orgWhat Makes an Exceptional Leader?http://blog.printing.org/blog/11054
<p><em>“There are three kinds of leaders. Those that tell you what to do. Those that allow you to do what you want.&nbsp;And Lean leaders&nbsp;that come down to the work and help you figure it out.”</em> – John Shook</p>
<p>What do you think classifies a person as an exceptional leader? One measure is that a person provides the motivation, knowledge, and tools that result in a company’s operation constantly improving. These are the individuals we want to honor with the <strong>2013 Managing for Improvement Award. </strong><a href="http://www.printing.org/improvementaward"><strong><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/email/MFI_AwardOrb.png" alt="" width="312" height="218" /></strong></a>This award recognizes managers who make quality and efficiency a top priority—they are the ones making sure their employees are productive and safe and that their customers are satisfied. They inspire people and ensure that these standards are sustained.</p>
<p>Why should you nominate an outstanding manager for the Managing for Improvement Award?</p>
<ul>
<li>The winner is recognized at the 2013 Continuous Improvement Conference*—the conference that focuses on exploring the latest innovations in Lean manufacturing and continuous improvement</li>
<li>In the ceremony the recipient receives an engraved award to display and complimentary attendance to the CI Conference as well as one night’s hotel stay</li>
<li>A news release detailing the recipient and award will be sent to industry media, media in the recipient’s community, and to industry peers</li>
<li>Recognition ad in <em>Printing Industries of America: The Magazine</em></li>
</ul>
<p>A truly outstanding manager helps a company strive for operational excellence. You can give a deserving leader, and their company, the recognition they deserve.</p>
<p>Read this article from David Harding’s blog, <a href="http://sharebestpracticesblog.com/2012/11/how-to-id-a-true-leader/">How to ID a True Leader</a>, for more on what qualities comprise a leader. Harding is presenting “Sustaining an Empowering Culture in the Face of Personnel Changes and Acquisitions” at the <a href="http://www.printing.org/ciconference">2013 Continuous Improvement Conference</a>.</p>
<p>Do you have someone in mind? If so, send us their information by <strong>February 15, 2013. </strong>Click on the image to view the details on how to enter your nomination. If you have any questions, please contact Jim Workman at <a href="mailto:jworkman@printing.org">jworkman@printing.org</a> or visit <a href="http://www.printing.org/ciconference">www.printing.org/ciconference</a>.</p>
<p><a href="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/conferences/ci/2013/ManagingForImprovementAwardFlyer_.pdf"><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/email/MFI_Nomination.jpg" alt="" width="556" height="312" /></a></p>
<p><em>You can attend the </em><a href="http://www.printing.org/ciconference"><strong><em>2013 Continuous Improvement Conference</em></strong></a><strong><em>, April 7–10, 2013, in Indianapolis, Indiana, </em></strong><em>and learn more about the skills needed to benefit from successful Lean manufacturing and continuous improvement strategies. </em></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11054#commentsGeneralResearch and TechnologyWed, 16 Jan 2013 19:31:09 +0000mflynn@printing.org11054 at http://blog.printing.orgPrinting Industries of America's Julie Shaffer To Deliver Keynote at IMI’s 22nd Annual Ink Jet Printing Conferencehttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11049
<p>Julie Shaffer, Printing Industries of America’s Vice President of Digital Strategies is giving the opening keynote presentation, "Printing's Role in a Multi-Media World," at the <strong>22nd Annual Ink Jet Printing Conference</strong> being held by the Information Management Institute (IMI) at the Scottsdale Cottonwoods Resort &amp; Suites in Scottsdale, Arizona on January 30-February 1, 2013. IMI's annual Ink Jet Printing Conference is the only U.S. ink jet printing industry event devoted entirely to ink jet printing technologies, markets, and applications.</p>
<p>Given the printing industry's current interest in ink jet printing and the ongoing rapid expansion of ink jet technology into new and exciting applications, IMI has offered all Printing Industries of America members a $300 discount on their 22nd Annual Ink Jet Printing Conference registration fee (making it $795) as well as a $200 discount on the registration fee (making it $495) for the other programs earlier in the week: <strong>Ink Jet Deposition Course</strong> (Jan 28-29), <strong>Ink Jet Printhead &amp; Selection Course</strong> (Jan 28-29), <strong>3D Printing Symposium</strong> (Jan 28-29) and <strong>AWA Inkjet &amp; Digital Label/Packaging Print Seminar</strong> (Jan 29-30).</p>
<p>For additional details about the conference, view the IMI website at <a href="http://www.imiconf.com">www.imiconf.com</a>. If you are a Printing Industries of America member and would like to take advantage of IMI’s special offer, contact Sam Shea at <a href="mailto:sshea@printing.org">sshea@printing.org</a> for more information.</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11049#commentsDigital Printing CouncilDigital Printing CouncilTue, 15 Jan 2013 19:10:11 +0000sshea@printing.org11049 at http://blog.printing.orgQuarterly Market Survery: Digital Statshttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11045
<p>The <em>2012 Third Quarter Print Market Update</em> has just been published by the Printing Industries of America Economic and Market Research Team. With that, we’d like to share some of the numbers relating to digital processes contained in the report.</p>
<p>As is typical of our membership demographics and the overall industry, a majority of the respondents to the market survey listed sheetfed as their primary process.&nbsp; However, 120 of the 182 respondents offered toner-based digital printing, while 34 of the respondents offered inkjet printing. These processes accounted for 16% and 4% of respondents’ total print sales respectively. In addition, more than 50 of the respondents engaged in wide- and super-wide-format inkjet printing.</p>
<p>The latest <em>Print Market Update</em> also tracks the percentage change in total print sales through the last eight quarters. Beginning in Q4 2011 and going through Q3 2012, the respondents to our survey noted year-to-date increases in total toner-based sales of 8.5%, 5.2%, 8.0%, and 5.3%. Likewise, year-to-date increases in inkjet sales of 10.9%, 11.1%, 3.8%, and 2.4% were reported.</p>
<p>All Printing Industries of America members can download the <em>Quarterly Print Market Updates</em> (along with many other resources) for free <a href="http://www.printing.org/page/4522">here</a>.</p>
<p>Our Economics and Market Research Team emails the results of these market surveys to all participants eight weeks after the end of each quarter and posts the results online two weeks later for all members to view. This data is also used to write Flash Reports and economic forecasts.</p>
<p>The survey is emailed to the main contact at each member company three weeks after the end of each quarter. To be added to this email list please contact Ed Gleeson at <a href="mailto:egleeson@printing.org">egleeson@printing.org</a> or 412-259-1756.</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11045#commentsDigital Printing CouncilFri, 11 Jan 2013 17:24:19 +0000sshea@printing.org11045 at http://blog.printing.orgNew White Paper on SEOhttp://blog.printing.org/blog/10869
<p>Printing Industries of America's Joe Marin has recently published a new white paper, free to all members, titled&nbsp;<em>Your Website: Keep it or Start Over?</em>. This white paper describes—from a printer’s perspective—how to make sure your website is properly optimized for search. Just a few of the topics covered include:</p>
<p>-How to assess your own website: Update or start over?<br />-What message should your website convey to get new business?<br />-Key steps to successful SEO for your website<br />…and so much more!</p>
<p>To download the white paper, members simply need to login and then click <a href="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/DPC/papers/2012_SEO_WP.pdf">here</a>.</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/10869#commentsDigital Printing CouncilMiscellaneousTue, 08 Jan 2013 17:35:12 +0000sshea@printing.org10869 at http://blog.printing.orgCombustible Dust Hazards: Is Your Facility Compliant with OSHA Standards?http://blog.printing.org/blog/11025
<p><em>The Environmental, Health, and Safety Department at Printing Industries of America offers advice on the control and cleaning of combustible dust, a top priority for the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).</em></p>
<p>The control of combustible dust has become a top priority for the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), and they are focusing on many industries—including printing operations—where combustible dust is generated. Combustible dust can be generated by several activities involved with printing and binding, including cutting paper, perfect binding, finishing operations, material handling activities, deteriorating building materials, and use of offset spray powder.</p>
<p>The generation, handling, and accumulation of combustible dust present both a fire and explosion hazard, and it must be managed to prevent a hazardous situation. In addition, excessive dust can cause problems with product quality and premature wear of motors, especially around motor sleeves. As a result of many fires and explosions occurring due to combustible dust, OSHA initiated a National Emphasis Program designed to target companies that generate, use, or handle combustible dusts and to cite them for violating OSHA standards. Individual printing and bindery operations are a target and have been inspected and cited for violations.</p>
<p>A first step to address combustible dust hazards is to evaluate your current condition. This involves determining first whether you generate combustible dust and second whether there is an accumulation of dust that would exceed OSHA’s threshold for a hazardous environment., OSHA uses a combustible dust threshold of 1/32 of an inch (the thickness of a paper clip) over 5% of horizontal surfaces. If your dust accumulation exceeds this threshold, it is very likely that you have a combustible dust hazard situation that needs to be addressed.</p>
<p>The two basic responses required are “cleaning” and “control.” <strong><em>Cleaning</em></strong> involves an initial cleaning of all dust in the area(s) or the entire facility and then implementing a regular cleaning schedule to keep the area(s) dust-free, or at least at or below the OSHA threshold. <strong><em>Control </em></strong>involves determining whether the equipment or operation is designed properly for the activities and performing regular inspection and maintenance of equipment and/or operations that have been identified as generating or contributing to combustible dust, such as dust collection systems, balers, production equipment, etc. With both cleaning and control activities, the efforts should be documented to show proof that the activities are implemented as policy within the company. Although these efforts cannot keep an OSHA inspection from occurring, it can help eliminate or greatly reduce the chances of receiving an OSHA citation</p>
<p>For a helpful reminder toward safety in the production environments, the EHS Department has developed a series of safety posters. One poster addresses the topic of reducing combustible dust and can be displayed in key areas to remind employees to always clean their areas, monitor the accumulation of dust levels, and inspect and maintain the equipment that can contribute to the combustible dust. Members can download the safety posters for free at <a href="http://www.printing.org/safetyposters">http://www.printing.org/safetyposters</a>.</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11025#commentsGeneralGreen and SustainabilityWed, 19 Dec 2012 16:16:43 +0000mflynn@printing.org11025 at http://blog.printing.orgGo Back to the Basics of the Printing Industry with Orientationhttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11022
<p>As a professional in the printing industry, it never hurts to get a refresher on the basics. These basics are not “old” ideas or theories of graphic communications. They are simply the building blocks of print and without them, you would not be able to grow with the industry or even understand it. Let’s face it, everyone can use a refresher once in a while.</p>
<p>Printing Industries of America will take it back to basics with the workshop <a href="http://training.printing.org/node/10944"><strong>Orientation to the Graphic Arts</strong></a>. This popular worskhop is the must-attend event for anyone in the industry who wants to be reminded of basic technology and language. Have you stopped reading, thinking “this isn’t for me, I’ve been in the industry for 20 years?” Well the novice is not the only professional who can benefit from orientation. It is equally beneficial to an expert in the field who wants to get a refresher in technology and industry language.</p>
<p>And you don’t need to work in the pressroom to take advantage of all that Orientation to the Graphic Arts has to offer. In past workshops, Orientation has been filled with attendees who are in sales, customer service, graphic design, human relations, marketing, production, and much more. Or if you are thinking of making a move in the industry, it doesn’t hurt to attend either. You will have the opportunity to learn about several different areas you may not have realized you were even interested in.</p>
<p>Orientation to the Graphic Arts will be held twice in 2013 at Printing Industries’ state-of-the-art facility just outside of Pittsburgh, PA. Attendees will work hands-on and in classroom-style settings, instructed by Printing Industries’ own experts. The first workshop will be held <strong>April 15–18, 2013</strong>, and will feature the print production workflow, major printing processes, color theory and reproduction, bindery, desktop publishing, and much more.</p>
<p><strong>For more information about this event, visit </strong><a href="http://www.printing.org/training">www.printing.org/training</a><strong> and click on “Orientation to the Graphic Arts” under the “Public Workshops” tab. Get the refresher you need—attend Orientation to the Graphic Arts.</strong></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11022#commentsGeneralTraining/EducationTue, 18 Dec 2012 16:32:47 +0000mflynn@printing.org11022 at http://blog.printing.orgAn Interview with Paul Cousineau, TAGA Presidenthttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11011
<p><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/taga/Taga_BannerAd.jpg" alt="" width="573" height="122" /></p>
<p><em>Below is an interview with Paul Cousineau, TAGA President. In this Q&amp;A session, Paul explains the hidden benefits of the </em><a href="http://tagaatc.printing.org/"><em>65<sup>th</sup> Annual Technical Conference</em></a><em>, what to expect of this year’s keynote presentations, and much more. <img style="float: right;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/taga/2012/boardmembers/Paul_Cousineau.jpg" alt="" width="200" height="250" /></em></p>
<p><strong>Q: What level of understanding of the industry’s technological developments is required to benefit from the 65<sup>th</sup> Annual Technical Conference?</strong></p>
<p>A: The TAGA Conference content appeals to a broad base of academics, technologists, manufacturers, and managers of technology. Some level of understanding of graphics and related industries is helpful, but I never fail to be amazed at the nuggets of information I walk away with every year at this conference—topics I don’t know enough about or should know more about, several of which ultimately benefit my company. The great thing about the conference is the experts are present and attendees are encouraged to network and have discussions with the speakers.</p>
<p><strong>Q: A new addition to the conference this year is the addition of Technical Innovation Papers to the Scientific Papers. What can we look forward to from the addition of the Technical Innovation Papers?</strong></p>
<p>A: Technical Innovation papers were added as a category by the TAGA Board to recognize unique applications and integrations of existing technologies that in and of themselves are innovative. It provides a forum for going beyond research or the invention of technologies to provide a forum for how technology can be applied and successful in a manufacturing setting.</p>
<p><strong>Q: One of the major agenda topics of this year’s conference is inkjet technology. What are some of the exciting applications and changes in the inkjet industry?</strong></p>
<p>A: There is a lot of activity and investment in inkjet technologies and consumables. Between workflows, print engines, and finishing, it was clear at DRUPA 2012 this process has the potential to become the next “major” printing process. The most exciting is the bumper crop of new ways to integrate these devices into manufacturing systems capable of producing a wide variety of products. Several inkjet technology leaders will be present at this year’s TAGA—come meet them, ask questions.</p>
<p><strong>Q: How will understanding the new developments in technology impact an attendee’s day-to-day work performance?</strong></p>
<p>A: Two words: understanding and networking.</p>
<p>Understanding. Each attendee has a different experience at the conference. They can participate as much or as little as they want. But it is the only conference I attend that has near full participation in every session. The content is that compelling—it leads to better understanding of what is behind the processes we use, and it helps the attendee to identify ways to apply this knowledge in their work careers.</p>
<p>Networking. Meet the experts, talk with them, engage them. Attendees can learn from others and take advantage of the informal sessions at the conference—there are several opportunities to network. In addition to experts from industry, TAGA has the highest concentration of professors, academics, and undergraduate and graduate students from top universities and colleges worldwide all in one event. The great part of establishing a relationship is the attendees build a network of experts they can tap throughout the year.</p>
<p><strong>Q: What can you tell us about this year’s keynote speaker Lineup? (<em>Bill Ray, Heidelberg and Fritz Bircher, Printing Competence Center, University of Applied Sciences Western Switzerland</em>)</strong></p>
<p>A: The keynote speakers are the leaders in their fields. TAGA stretches the boundaries of what is related to graphics, so you never know what to expect, whether it’s a discussion of synthetic photography or inkjet imaging of skin cells in a medical application. We have exciting keynotes this year, and the topics will span from looking at the technology horizon for printed electronics to the latest developments in inkjet technologies.</p>
<p><strong>Q: This conference is now in its 65<sup>th</sup> year. What is TAGA’s role in technical innovation, and what technology do you think has revolutionized the industry?</strong></p>
<p>A: TAGA’s role in technology innovation is in bringing about the forum and rigor to apply scientific methods to development of new ideas. If you go back in time, the seminal work to define new technologies in our industry started with TAGA and its members. This said, I think the technology that has influenced the industry the most is the micro-processor. This was an enabler to do more calculations than was previously possible and led to the development of the sophisticated process controls we use today to control the quality of the products we produce.</p>
<p><strong>Q: What will attendees ultimately take away from this conference?</strong></p>
<p>A: Attendees will come away from the conference with at least a half dozen new ideas and new contacts that will help them in their work over the next year.</p>
<p class="Default"><em>The 65<sup>th</sup> Annual Technical Conference will be held <strong>February 3–6, 2013, in Portland, Oregon</strong>. Take this opportunity to explore emerging technology that will determine the industry’s future! Visit </em><a href="http://tagaatc.printing.org/"><em>taga.org/atc</em></a><em> for more information or to register.</em></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11011#commentsGeneralConferencesWed, 12 Dec 2012 16:40:47 +0000mflynn@printing.org11011 at http://blog.printing.orgPrint is moving forward … and so are you with the Value of Print Mobile Apphttp://blog.printing.org/blog/11009
<p>In a world where your clients are bombarded by popular media myths like, “Print is dead,” you choose to fight back because, let’s face it, the facts don’t lie. Print is not only an effective part of the marketing mix; it is an environmentally responsible product and a profitable industry. To help spread this message, we created <strong><em>The</em></strong> <strong><em>Value of Print Flip-Book</em></strong>, a resource full of facts and statistics to counteract common present beliefs that are simply not true. (Learn more at <a href="http://www.printing.org/valueofprint">www.printing.org/valueofprint</a>.)</p>
<p>So what if you could take all of the information in the <em>Flip-Book,</em> combine it with searchable industry data and an updated RSS feed of industry news, and make it available anytime and anywhere? Well, you will be excited to hear that we have just unveiled a new FREE tool—the <strong>Value of Print Mobile App.</strong></p>
<p><strong>Apple users: <a href="http://prnt.in/ZXq" target="_blank">http://prnt.in/ZXq</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p><strong>Android users: <a href="http://prnt.in/ZXf">http://prnt.in/ZXf</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p><em>Apple and Android users can download by searching "Value of Print" in their mobile app store or b<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jLGEtp4avjE"><img style="float: right;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/email/vop_screenshot.jpg" alt="" /></a>y entering the respective link onto their mobile browser. </em></p>
<p><strong>Blackberry users: <a href="http://prnt.in/ZXP">http://prnt.in/ZXP</a></strong></p>
<p><em>Blackberry users may enter the above link into&nbsp;their&nbsp;mobile browser.</em></p>
<p>Now available on your mobile device, the <strong>Value of Print App</strong> features searchable industry reports from the <em>2011 Print Market Atlas. </em>This feature allows users to look at print statistics by selecting a location—national, state, or region. They can then look at an overview of the chosen location with shipments, establishments, and employment. Each of these overviews will allow for filtering by market segment and printing process. The results are displayed in a chart or graph format—whichever the user prefers.</p>
<p>Say you are working on a sale and want to know shipments by state in the general commercial printing market segment. Well, now there's a print app for that!</p>
<p>The app will also contain live a RSS feed with up-to-the-minute news and announcements as well as supported facts on print’s effectiveness and sustainability from the printed <em>Flip-Book.</em></p>
<p>Our members have told us they need a convenient way to respond to the negative comments often heard in the field about print. Well, did you know that <strong><em>85% of consumers sort through and read selected pieces of mail every day?</em></strong> Or that <strong>Just 11% of the world’s forests are used for paper (25% for lumber; 53% for fuel)?</strong> This information and more is found on the app, available at your respective App stores.</p>
<p>The printed <em>Flip-Book</em> you have on your desk or in your briefcase has already helped countless sales, marketing, and other print professionals promote the value of print.</p>
<p><span style="color: #339966;"><em>“I loved the </em>Flip-Book<em> and can’t wait to see the app. It will be a good complement to the hard copy. I Look forward to sharing it with all our salespeople.”</em></span></p>
<p><span style="color: #339966;">—Aron Blume, Director, Global Operations, Lean Six Sigma MBB, HubCast Inc.</span></p>
<p><span style="color: #339966;"><em>“This is the best thing that anybody has thought of. I am excited that you are doing this.&nbsp;I commend PIA, and you to be heading this up and look forward to this App. Thanks again for all your support!”</em></span></p>
<p><span style="color: #339966;">—Dave Boynton Jr., General Manager, Mac Papers</span></p>
<p>The <strong>Value of Print Mobile App</strong> is another way to make your job a little easier. We look forward to helping you spread the true message about print in your sales efforts with current information and statistics. Promote your passion for print at the press of a button with the new app!</p>
<p>If you are eager to know more about this app, check out the updates we are posting to our social media sites. Or, for more information, contact Lisa Rawa, Vice President, Marketing, at <a href="mailto:lrawa@printing.org">lrawa@printing.org</a>.</p>
<p><em>Join our new Facebook Group,</em> <a href="http://www.facebook.com/home.php?ref=logo#!/pages/Value-of-Print-Mobile-App/200200910117253">The Value of Print Mobile App</a> <em>for more updates and user reviews!</em></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/11009#commentsGeneralMiscellaneousWed, 12 Dec 2012 16:04:53 +0000mflynn@printing.org11009 at http://blog.printing.orgExtreme Offset Can Help You Print Better, Cheaper, and Fasterhttp://blog.printing.org/blog/10974
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Getting hands-on training is important when trying to get your printing facility up to speed. With the upcoming workshop, <a href="http://training.printing.org/page/10905">Extreme Offset: Troubleshoot, Control, Optimize</a>, attendees will get the proper training to keep their facility in top condition, while learning how to print higher quality pieces more efficiently.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"></span><span style="color: #000000; font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Extreme Offset will be the first workshop of 2013 for Printing Industries of America. Held March 19–21, 2013, this popular workshop will provide the essential training to save your business money and gain an aggressive edge against the competition. Attendees will participate in sessions in the areas of troubleshooting, controlling, and optimizing printing capabilities and activities in the pressroom environment. With this comes hands-on learning from Printing Industries of America’s experts—Lloyd DeJidas, Director, Graphic Services and Facility Manager, and Greg Workman, Pressroom and Bindery Supervisor.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Printing Industries’ <a href="http://www.printing.org/testforms">Test forms</a> are just one resource that will be presented in the press laboratory. Learning their proper use will be part of day one at Extreme Offset. Test forms are comprehensive diagnostic and measurement tools designed to help printers achieve quality color printing with less waste and reduced makeready time. The instructors will demonstrate how you can use test forms to see if your printing presses are reproducing consistent color. Additionally, see how to use these forms as a benchmark, with the ability to put your own color management targets into the form to compare color and consistency from the original colors.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">To learn more about this informative event, visit <a href="http://www.printing.org/training">www.printing.org/training</a> and click on “Extreme Offset: Troubleshoot, Control, Optimize” under the “Public Workshops” heading. Don’t wait to register for Extreme Offset as this program is known to sell out quickly.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">If you want to attend Extreme Offset but March is not convenient for you, there are other options. This event is <em>so</em> popular, we are running two sessions in addition to the March event—July 23–25, 2013, and November 5–7, 2013. Choose the date most convenient to you and put it in your calendar now.</span></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/10974#commentsGeneralTraining/EducationThu, 06 Dec 2012 17:12:27 +0000mflynn@printing.org10974 at http://blog.printing.orgWhat Does the New National Buying Power Program with ASI Mean to You and Your Business?http://blog.printing.org/blog/10968
<p><a href="http://www.printing.org/asi"><em><img style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto; display: block;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/images/asi_logo.jpg" alt="" width="552" height="188" /></em></a></p>
<p><em>Below, Michael Walters, Executive Director, Distributor Services, ASI, discusses how the newest National Buying Power program will help your business.</em></p>
<p>So what does the new National Buying Power Program with ASI mean to you and your business? <strong>More revenue!</strong> Distributors (like you) who sell promotional products find it very lucrative.</p>
<p>Here’s a little background on this $18.5 billion industry and why it makes sense to offer a new service to your clients.</p>
<p><strong>What is a promotional product?</strong></p>
<p>Also known as ad specialties, promotional products are any item that can be imprinted with a company’s logo.</p>
<p><strong>Top Promotional Products in 2012</strong></p>
<ol>
<li>Shirts</li>
<li>Bags</li>
<li>Writing instruments</li>
<li>Other apparel</li>
<li>Caps/headwear</li>
</ol>
<p><strong>Why would my customers want to use promotional products?</strong></p>
<p>Two main reasons:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Exposure.</strong> Companies increase brand recognition with these products, because they are designed to be used or worn on a repetitive basis, constantly putting a company’s name and logo in front of potential buyers.</li>
<li><strong>Affordability.</strong> Promotional products are very affordable, with the cost per impression being less than other forms of popular media, including TV and radio.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>What kind of revenue can I expect?</strong></p>
<p>There’s a high profit margin on promotional products—up to 40%, and average yearly sales for a distributor are around $775,100. Sounds good, doesn’t it?</p>
<p><strong>Want to learn more?</strong></p>
<p>Offer customers a new service and gain new clients! Visit <a title="file:///C:/Documents%20and%20Settings/EItalia/My%20Documents/www.printing.org/asi" href="file:///C:\Documents%20and%20Settings\EItalia\My%20Documents\www.printing.org\asi">www.printing.org/asi</a> to learn more about Printing Industries of America’s National Buying Power Program with ASI.</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/10968#commentsGeneralMember ResourcesTue, 04 Dec 2012 17:40:24 +0000mflynn@printing.org10968 at http://blog.printing.orgDigital Photography and Workflow: An Interview with Taz Tallyhttp://blog.printing.org/blog/10943
<p>When it comes to image and color management, it’s best to look at the big picture—your whole workflow. When you capture a digital photograph, you are making essential decisions that impact your entire workflow. Some people are right-brain, and some are left-brain. But everyone can learn how to capture and process high-quality images by learning the fundamentals from image capture to output.</p>
<p>Few professionals know this better than <strong>Dr. Taz Tally</strong><strong>,</strong> <em>Taz Tally Photography and Director of the Digital Print Production Program, Sessions.edu</em><strong>—</strong><em>The Online School of Design</em>. He is leading “The Fine Art of Digital Photography and Workflow,” one of the most talked-about sessions of this conference. Now less than one month before he presents at the <strong>2012 Color Management Conference</strong>, we have an exclusive interview with Dr. Tally on his much-anticipated session. See what you will experience during a day with this self-described adventure seeker!</p>
<p><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/email/tally_two.jpg" alt="" /></p>
<p><strong>What makes you excited about your pre-conference session, and what makes this conference unique?</strong></p>
<p><em>This is an all-day, hands-on session that lets you capture and create color-managed images from start to finish. I take you through the whole color management workflow, from image capture to color correction to preparing your images for viewing and printing. You will see your finished product at the conclusion of the day. The Arizona landscape is spectacular with endless opportunities.</em></p>
<p><strong>If I am not a photographer, will this session be useful?</strong></p>
<p><em>Absolutely. We will be covering both the fundamentals of image composition as well as adjusting and &nbsp;managing files in a Photoshop-based workflow for creating high-quality images for viewing and printing. We will first focus on capturing well-composed images, which is the first step in a high-quality image and color management process. We will then apply Photoshop image correction and management fundamentals to our well-composed images. This information will result in having better composed and higher-quality images and better color—it also makes you a more valuable and/or marketable employee! For this session, I recommend having a basic knowledge of Photoshop.</em></p>
<p><strong>Have you created this session from a technical or creative perspective?</strong></p>
<p><em>Both, actually. Some people lean more toward the creative side, some the more technical, while others see the whole process. The information is developed and presented to include photographers and pre-media personnel, and anyone involved in the image and color management process, whether you are design, photography, or production oriented. I teach trainable skills—you learn the fundamentals to get you started and fill in any gaps in your workflow. </em></p>
<p><strong>Can you describe what attendees will experience?</strong></p>
<p><em>We will be shooting at a prime location in Scottsdale, not far from the conference venue, the Hotel Valley Ho. We will go through the entire process of capturing the image, evaluating and correcting images, and preparing our images for viewing and printing. There is so much beautiful landscape here. It is the perfect setting to practice capturing engaging photographs because of all the details in an urban scene.&nbsp; I follow my own rule: never be caught without your camera, because you never know where the next great shot will be. </em></p>
<p><strong>What are the top takeaways going to be?</strong></p>
<p><em>There are plenty of ideas and techniques you will learn and be able to apply back home, but the top three are:</em></p>
<ol>
<li><em>Composing high-quality images in order to produce well-composed images</em></li>
<li><em>The fundamentals of effective color correction and management with regard to digital photographic images</em></li>
<li><em>How to prepare an image for viewing and for printing on multiple output devices</em></li>
</ol>
<p><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/email/tally_three.jpg" alt="" /></p>
<p><strong>There are many people excited that you are presenting Digital Photography because of your talent and reputation. Can you tell us a little more about yourself?</strong></p>
<p><em>I am very excited to meet all of our attendees as well! I have always had a passion for photography. I went to college in the southwestern United States, so a lot of my early photography was done there. Now I am an outdoor adventurer in Alaska where I have my own “outdoor playground.”&nbsp; I look forward to seeing you in Scottsdale!</em></p>
<p>For more information on <strong><em>The Fine Art of Digital Photography and Workflow </em></strong>or the <strong>2012 Color Management Conference, </strong>visit <a href="http://www.printing.org/color">www.printing.org/color</a>.</p>
<p><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/email/tally_one.jpg" alt="" /></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/10943#commentsGeneralConferencesTue, 20 Nov 2012 14:09:56 +0000mflynn@printing.org10943 at http://blog.printing.orgBeyond Standard Inkjet Printing http://blog.printing.org/blog/10938
<p><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/taga/logos/taga_logo.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="118" /></p>
<p class="Default"><em>Professor Fritz Bircher, Printing Competence Center, University of Applied Sciences Western Switzerland, Fribourg, will present Beyond Standard Inkjet Printing at the TAGA 65<sup>th</sup> Annual Technical Conference, February 3–6, 2013, in Portland, Oregon. Below, Professor Bircher recalls his experience of learning about inkjet technology, a hot topic at this year’s conference. </em></p>
<p class="Default"><strong>The range of standard inkjet</strong><br />Inkjet technology nowadays is state-of-the-art for small office/home office printers, coding, large-format printing or as add-on units to provide flexible data within traditional printing processes. Drupa 2012 showed, that more and more application fields are being covered now, even if inkjet is not the only digital technology on the market.<br /><br />Commercially available inkjet printing systems and printheads provide a certain range of operating specifications and conditions. It is important to understand that for good printing results, printhead, ink, substrate, and drying principle or unit have to be well-adapted to each other.</p>
<p class="Default"><strong>Motivation to break these limits</strong><br />Some five years ago, with the increasing pressure in the industry to have to go digital with their processes, many companies realized that interesting fields of application appeared outside these known ranges. They promised attractive new markets besides the difficult traditional business. In their search of innovation, some companies increasingly began to go beyond the limits of the known and commercially available technologies. But they mostly failed or it took them much too long to succeed in a first step on their own. They underestimated the complexity of all involved parameters. Much more profound knowledge of all involved subsystems and their way of interaction was needed. This was why I was often asked about feasibility studies to support the breaking of these limits.</p>
<p class="Default"><strong>Different applications</strong><br />Many different printing applications have been tackled to address different printing requirements, including large outside advertising on grass and concrete. Their JumboJET was designed and developed for commercial use in advertising and art applications, printing with a resolution of about 1 dpi (pixel diameter can be selected 20 or 40 mm) and a print width of 5 m. Every pixel is linked to his exact final position so that the software can control the print process by GPS. The driver then is independent of any given path, he only has to provide, that he covered every spot of the image at least once at the end. Learn about other applications including printing on snow and the challenges introduced by the low temperatures, the influence of particle size and viscosity on performance.</p>
<p class="Default"><em>For more information about the keynote presentations at the TAGA 65<sup>th</sup> Annual Technical Conference, or to </em><a href="http://tagaatc.printing.org/page/10161"><em>register</em></a><em>, visit </em><a href="http://tagaatc.printing.org/page/10161"><em>taga.org/atc</em></a><em>.</em></p>
<p class="Default"><a href="http://tagaatc.printing.org/"><em><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="http://www.printing.org/sites/default/files/taga_button_ad.jpg" alt="" width="220" height="190" /></em></a></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/10938#commentsGeneralConferencesWed, 14 Nov 2012 14:01:33 +0000mflynn@printing.org10938 at http://blog.printing.orgPrinting Industries of America Celebrates a Milestone Year in 2012http://blog.printing.org/blog/10916
<p>The accomplishments and innovations of the printing industry are immeasurable. Printing Industries of America’s year-long celebration of its landmark 125<sup>th</sup> anniversary has the industry reflecting on its history, staying up-to-date with current trends, and feeling excitement for its future. The milestone we are celebrating once again reminds the printing industry of all that it has to offer.</p>
<p><strong>Stay Up-to-Date with Current Industry Trends</strong><br />Not only is Printing Industries of America reflecting on the history of this exciting industry, but we are also looking to keep our members current in some of the top industry trends. The Center for Digital Printing Excellence at Printing Industries provides up-to-date information on digital printing business applications and technologies, cross-media marketing opportunities, emerging innovations, Web and eCommerce, and social media engagement.</p>
<p>The Center for Technology and Research is at the forefront of technology for the printing industry and provides members with support for day-to-day operations and long-term product development.</p>
<p>The Value of Print is another hot trend we are extolling to our members and the industry. Now more than ever, it is vital to communicate that printed products are both environmentally and socially responsible. To advance the core message that printing is vital and a sustainable form of communication, Printing Industries of America has provided information and developed resources to help increase awareness about print. Actively promote the value of print with <em>The Value of Print Flip-Book</em>. The new flip-book delivers facts and figures to support your sales efforts in the modern media mix.</p>
<p><strong>The Future of the Industry</strong><br />Put the future of your business into <em>your </em>hands. Printing Industries of America members have the opportunity to take advantage of benefits that can save time and money and help improve profitability.</p>
<p>As print advances, so will our place in the industry. Printing Industries of America will continue to be the leader for the graphic communications industry, providing printers with the latest in technology, education, and products and services. As we look to the future, we acknowledge that only a willingness to grow and evolve can help keep print valuable and relevant to consumers. <br /><br /></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/10916#commentsGeneralMiscellaneousWed, 31 Oct 2012 14:21:33 +0000mflynn@printing.org10916 at http://blog.printing.orgExperience to Solve Your Toughest Challengeshttp://blog.printing.org/blog/10915
<p>Is your operation in compliance with federal, state, and local environmental and safety regulations? Would you be ready if an EPA or OSHA inspector showed up at your door today? &nbsp;An inspection can happen at any time, and if you are not prepared, you could face thousands of dollars in fines for even minor infractions. The best way to solve a compliance issue is <em>before</em> an inspection occurs, and the Environmental, Health, and Safety experts at Printing Industries of America are here to help with all of your regulatory compliance needs.</p>
<p>Our expert staff has the knowledge to provide you with timely and effective solutions for preventing and resolving compliance issues, responding to an enforcement action, or achieving sustainability certification to go beyond compliance. Customer demands for sustainability are increasing, and EHS compliance is a requirement of any credible sustainability program.</p>
<p>Agency penalties for noncompliance can be severe and expensive, and safety violations can lead to serious injuries. The first place to start with achieving regulatory compliance is to know and understand what rules apply to your operation. This is done with a compliance audit that the EHS team can conduct to confirm compliance or uncover violations and help correct them in a reasonable fashion and without government penalty. If an inspection has already occurred, the EHS team can help mitigate any violations and penalties. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>When in Need, Turn to Printing Industries of America</strong></p>
<ul>
<li><strong>We know printing, inside and out.<br /></strong>With nearly 50 years of combined printing industry experience, our EHS experts provide knowledgeable, effective, and professional service to printers across the nation. With our expertise, you eliminate the need to spend time and money educating other consultants about your business and the industry.</li>
<li><strong>We know the rules.</strong><br />Whether it’s compliance or sustainability, we have an extensive understanding of regulatory requirements and industry standards, and we can help you understand it all.</li>
<li><strong>We can save you money.<br /></strong>Our EHS experts have saved clients thousands of dollars by being able to navigate the regulatory process, help develop cost effective compliance management, and negotiate with the appropriate agency in cases of citations and penalties.</li>
</ul>
<p>Learn more about our Environmental, Health, and Safety consulting services by visiting <a href="http://www.printing.org/ehsconsulting">www.printing.org/ehsconsulting</a>.</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/10915#commentsGeneralGreen and SustainabilityWed, 31 Oct 2012 14:16:00 +0000mflynn@printing.org10915 at http://blog.printing.orgEvaluate Your Industry Performance with 2012–2013 Ratioshttp://blog.printing.org/blog/10914
<p>Printing Industries of America has recently released the 2012–2013 <em>Ratios</em> volumes. The <em>Ratios</em> will help you and your company assess your performance compared to industry leaders, determine which aspects of your operations need improvement, and ultimately increase profits.</p>
<p>The <em>Ratios</em> are an important tool for industry leaders. Printers use the <em>Ratios</em> reports to evaluate their performance against industry profit leaders. Specific reports are available for various firm profiles by size of firm, printing process, and print market segments. In all, there are 15 different volumes of the <em>Ratios</em> for you to choose which is best for your business.</p>
<p>Here is a sample of what you can expect to find in the 2012–2013 <em>Ratios:</em></p>
<p><em>According to our 2012 survey results (2011 fiscal year-end numbers), materials accounted for the largest single cost category for the typical printer—approximately 35.5% of sales. Total materials expenses increased slightly in 2011 from their previous level of 35.2% in 2010. Paper alone consumed more than one-in-five sales dollars last year. Other major costs incurred by printers last year included factory payroll at 24.8% of sales (down from 24.9% in 2010), factory expenses of 17.6% of sales (down from 18.0% in 2010), and administrative and selling expenses at 19.6% of sales (up from 19.4% in 2010).</em></p>
<p><strong>Each </strong><em>Ratios</em><strong> volume includes a report on the following areas:</strong> Operations; Profitability and Sales Factors; Cost Drivers and Expenses; Balance Sheet Statistics; Basic Payroll Data and Employee Profiles; and Inventory Turnover and Billing Cycles.</p>
<p><em>View a complete listing of the </em>Ratios<em> by visiting www.printing.org/2012ratios. If you have any questions, you may contact Ron Davis at 434-591-0527 or rdavis@printing.org.<br /><br /></em></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/10914#commentsGeneralEconomicsTue, 30 Oct 2012 15:19:31 +0000mflynn@printing.org10914 at http://blog.printing.orgCapturing, Editing and Managing High-quality Color Imageshttp://blog.printing.org/blog/10912
<p><em>Dr. Taz Tally,</em> <em>Taz Tally Photography and Director of the Digital Print Production Program, Sessions.edu</em><strong>—</strong><em>The Online School of Design, has been practicing, teaching, and writing about photography for more than 30 years. Specializing in black and white landscape photography, Dr. Tally is an expert in controlling image color and quality, and reproducing his awe-inspiring images using Adobe Creative Suite.&nbsp; </em></p>
<p><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/email/Taz_Tally.png" alt="" width="363" height="272" /></p>
<p>Creating high-quality color images requires a combination of both creative image capture skills and technically competent image adjustment and management expertise. Achieving high-quality final color photographic output depends upon:</p>
<ul>
<li>Developing and utilizing high-quality techniques and processes throughout your color workflow, including composing eye-catching image compositions,</li>
<li>Capturing images with Photoshop in mind</li>
<li>Accurately and efficiently evaluating the color quality of your images</li>
<li>Utilizing nondestructive image adjustment and editing techniques</li>
<li>Accurately and efficiently adjusting your color, preparing your image for your final output device(s)</li>
<li>Exporting and/or printing your final image—all while managing your color consistently throughout the process.</li>
</ul>
<p>So, consistently creating good, quality color images requires a mixture of both right-brain creative judgment and left-brain analytical and technical skills and organization. Most of us tend to favor one side of the brain or the other. Those who are more left-brain oriented may find the creative aspects of image capture to be a bit outside of our comfort zone. Similarly, those who are more right-brain oriented can be thoroughly intimidated by the analytical and technical aspects of color correction and color management. The reality of today's creative and business life is that the same individual is often tasked with having both the creative insights and the technical competence to produce and output high-quality images. The good news is that the fundamentals of designing eye-catching image compositions and executing technically competent color correction and management are both learnable skills!</p>
<p>During a full-day color image seminar in Scottsdale, Arizona, we will work our way through the entire high-quality color image creation workflow. We will begin with learning and then using a four-step process for composing eye-catching images. Then using the images we captured in the composition portion of the seminar we will step through the process of image evaluation, nondestructive color correction, and image editing. We will then finish up with preparing our images for final output, including printing. Throughout the entire process, we will be conscious of developing then maintaining the color quality of our images.</p>
<p><em>Dr. Taz Tally will be presenting <strong>The Fine Art of Digital Photography and Workflow</strong> pre-conference workshop at the </em><a href="http://color.printing.org/"><em>2012 Color Management Conference</em></a><em>, December 1–4, in Scottsdale, Arizona. Experience this valuable creative learning experience in a gorgeous desert setting. Find more information on this session and more </em><a href="http://color.printing.org/page/10754"><em>here</em></a><em>.</em></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/10912#commentsGeneralConferencesMon, 29 Oct 2012 15:27:15 +0000mflynn@printing.org10912 at http://blog.printing.orgPrint—Still a Vital Component in an E-Centric Worldhttp://blog.printing.org/blog/10902
<p><em>This guest blog was submitted by <em>Kurt Konow</em>, Production Print Marketing Strategist, <em>Ricoh</em> Americas Corporation<strong>, </strong>sponsor of the<strong> <a href="http://www.integratedprintforum.org/">2012 Integrated Print Forum</a>, October 29-30, 2012.</strong></em></p>
<p>The world of communicating has changed dramatically. It was less than a decade ago that the primary distribution channel for communications was traditional print. Whether you were in the business of preparing and distributing mission-critical bills and statements, or the more creative world of designing and delivering direct mail, flyers, and brochures, print was king. But then something happened. Tradition was socked with a one-two punch—the E-World—and the methods of communicating changed forever.</p>
<p>Consumers have more communication choices than ever before, including email, SMS text messaging, Twitter, Facebook, Google+, and traditional print. Depending on the content of the communication, one channel might be just perfect and another channel not even a consideration. Sitting at your kid’s soccer game or commuting on a train might be perfect situations to text or tweet a message, but not very practical or timely to create and print a message. Clearly, we live in a world that communicates, and the E-World has simplified and enhanced our ability to interface with others instantaneously. However, what still remains at the center of the communication channel choice is preference and practicality. Not everyone can—or wants to—communicate via Facebook messaging. Not every mail piece, brochure, or poster is intelligently transferable through mobile marketing mechanisms. What are we saying? Print is still valued, still considered, still preferred by many, and still necessary.</p>
<p>While print is not dead, it does require a more strategic approach to ensure it is carefully scheduled within an overall, integrated communication plan. In some circumstances print may still be able to stand on its own merit, but in other instances it will need to be a component in a broader communication strategy. Either way, it is incumbent on the communication owner to maximize the return on investment of print by ensuring maximum effectiveness. However, this lofty mandate can be daunting, unless you embrace a “best-practice” approach to ensuring print is a viable and effective component of an overall communication strategy.</p>
<p><strong><em>Ricoh’s 5 “Best-Practices” to Ensure Print Success </em></strong></p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Print Is Personal</span></strong></p>
<p>Never has the opportunity to effectively engage a prospect, or existing customer, been more possible than right now. As you are reading this article, your email inbox most likely has received one or more marketing messages. Did they go directly to spam or did they get clogged up amongst your other daily emails that you have to filter through? Either way, the “personalized” effect of your marketing email messages will most likely go unnoticed—if noticed at all. On the other hand, a printed piece with personalized messaging and imagery stares you right in the face and lets you know that your message was targeted and designed just for you. Specific color choices are but one example of how personalization can be infused into a printed piece. On average, response rates are five- to six-percent higher when personalized color is an element of printed communications.</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Print Drives ROI</span></strong></p>
<p>Consumers gravitate to print. According to a recent study conducted by the United States Postal Service (USPS), 38% of households surveyed found direct mail pieces “interesting.” Making a buying decision originates with consumer interest—whether the interest is self-induced or company-prompted, the consumer must be interested in the product, service, or offer before they buy. Additionally, the CMO council indicates that 67% of respondents to a direct mail survey stated that they like getting mail from their existing providers about new product offerings. Plus, 41% of loyalty program members ordered products or services through their vendor’s catalogs or through the mail. Based solely on these few facts, print is driving a high ROI in many companies.</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Print Is Engaging</span></strong></p>
<p>Print is the only communication channel that can potentially engage all five human senses. Yes—all five! Sure, sight and touch are simple with print, but with a well thought-out print program you can integrate a sound chip, a sniff scratch, and—with just a bit more ingenuity—taste as well. With the proper use of paper, ink, and finishing techniques, print has the ability to affect the senses un-matched by the e-channel. Bottom line, human beings are sensory, and print can engage all five of them. Yes—all five!</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Print Is Sustainable</span></strong></p>
<p>We are a “Green” nation—and understandably so. It is imperative that we take care of the planet for our upcoming lineage, rather than let them lie in wastelands filled with our disrespect. However, the good news is that print is sustainable and green. According to the USDA Forest Service, there are four million trees planted daily in the U.S., and of that, 1.7 million per day are planted by the wood and paper industries—which equate to about 620 million trees per year. Additionally, the chemical process used to produce digital print has dramatically improved with regard to green benchmarks and guidelines. Therefore, print is now a very sustainable part of the communication industry and can be leveraged in good conscience.</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Print Is Proven</span></strong></p>
<p>iPad, iPhone, Facebook, Twitter, SMS—these are but a few of the technologies that have changed our communication methods forever. Instantaneous communication, split-second response, and immediate satisfaction are characteristics of this new E-Centric World. However, print is proven. Proven that the results you’re looking for are achievable with print. According to The Print Council, direct mail has directly influenced more consumers to buy than any other channel or communication. In fact, in many circumstances it may be the only channel you can accurately rely on. So, while planning your communication strategy, remember print—it will be “print” that puts the exclamation point on your strategy!</p>
<p>Never has there been more pressure on making the right communication decisions in order to effectively reach the right audience at the right time with the right message. Now that consumers have so many more communication channels to select from, it’s up to you to decide which channel is most effective for each message. So go ahead, exploit the E-Messaging world. But also remember to think strategically, and when you do, contemplate this: “Print is still valued, still considered, still preferred by many, and still necessary.”</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/10902#commentsGeneralDigital Printing CouncilFri, 26 Oct 2012 13:06:50 +0000mflynn@printing.org10902 at http://blog.printing.orgIf You Can’t Measure It, You Can’t Manage Ithttp://blog.printing.org/blog/10899
<p><em>This guest blog was submitted by <strong>Bill Wagner, CEO, CSP, and Co-Founder, Accord Management Systems</strong></em><strong>.</strong> <em>As a consultant, presenter, and author for more than 20 years, he has been at the forefront of leadership and entrepreneurial practice. </em></p>
<p>Printing industry professionals live in a world of trim sizes, PMS colors, and amazing attention to detail with the exception of the “C Level” and sales. It’s clearly an industry that depends on metrics.</p>
<p style="text-align: right;"><img src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/LPIA/WagnerB.jpeg" alt="" width="150" height="194" /></p>
<p>Our industry, human resources consulting, shares this mission-critical imperative with the printing industry. We also depend on tools of measurement; however, the item being measured is <em>behavior</em>. Using a well-proven system, we conduct surveys that measure whether an individual’s behavior fits with the behavioral requirements of a particular position.</p>
<p>For the sake of example, consider any printing job you’ve worked on recently. If an error occurred, then a number of obstacles were created. For instance, the error may now compromise the envelope planned for the mailing. Or, the color may be darker than the color used in other campaigns. Either way, the decision must be made to reprint the job or somehow make it work with the error. Unfortunately, it’s not as easy to fix a bad hire; hiring decisions typically have longer lasting repercussions <em>and</em> impressions.</p>
<p>Over the past decade, my company surveyed the personalities of 3000+ successful entrepreneurs, business owners, and leaders. What have we learned? We’ve learned that success is based more on behavior than it is on skill, education, and/or experience. Our research shows that specific personalities actually perform at higher levels for sustained periods of time.</p>
<p>So, if you’ve struggled with people decisions in the past, think about it this way: A person who does well in a line position may not possess the personality to succeed as a department head. The best customer service representative may fail as a manager. And, your most profitable salesperson might stink in the role of sales manager because of too much of a competitive edge. Each scenario may end in failure not because of skills, but because they don’t have the personality necessary for the job.</p>
<p align="center"><a href="http://www.printing.org/lpiafall" target="_blank"><object style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="221" height="196" data="http://www.printing.org/sites/default/files/lpia_2012_button_ad_220x190px_final.jpg" type="application/x-shockwave-flash"><param name="src" value="http://www.printing.org/sites/default/files/lpia_2012_button_ad_220x190px_final.jpg" /></object></a><em>If you want to learn more about effective leadership, Bill Wagner will be presenting <strong>Managing the Gap: A 360<sup>0 </sup>Leadership Survey</strong> at the </em><a href="http://lpiafall.printing.org/page/10633"><em>2012 LPIA Innovation Conference</em></a><em>, November 7–9, 2012, in Coronado (San Diego), California. </em></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/10899#commentsTue, 23 Oct 2012 16:28:56 +0000kiorio@printing.org10899 at http://blog.printing.orgGet in the Mood for Color: Find out What Is Hot in 2013!http://blog.printing.org/blog/10867
<p><em>The following article is contributed by Jackie Jordan, Color Expert, Director of Color Marketing, The Sherwin-Williams Company. Ms. Jordan is one of the keynote presenters at the </em><a href="http://www.printing.org/color"><em>2012 Color Management Conference</em></a><em>, December 1–4, in Scottsdale, Arizona. Her valuable session, </em><strong>Opposites Attract: The 2013 Sherwin-Williams Colormix</strong><strong>™ Forecast</strong>, <em>will explore today’s color mood and reveal the dueling influences that are shaping four divergent color directions. </em></p>
<p>Colormix 2013 is the exploration of extremes and opposites that reflect our diverse mindsets, lifestyles, and design philosophies. We are intrigued by the push and pull of luxury vs. austerity, light vs. dark, textured vs. smooth, fantasy vs. reality, synthetic vs. natural, and so on. We all have our own identities, but we are also influenced and shaped by the divergent energy of the world around us. With influences coming at us at warp speed, how do we find our own equilibrium, and, most importantly, how do we filter the overwhelming number of choices in a world where we have access to everything with the touch of a button or swipe of a finger?</p>
<p>As forecasters it’s our mission to process and filter out the noise and focus on the relevant and meaningful so we can share a synthesized view that defines key drivers, inspirations, influences, and influencers that shape and inspire current and future color directions. We look everywhere and at everything to guide and inform us so that we can present a comprehensive account of the why’s, the who’s, and the what’s behind the trends and forecast for the future.</p>
<p>Our exploration this year takes its cues from key indicators in fashion, cinema, pop culture, art, product design, science, and nature. Elements of each serve to craft the story and vision of future color and design direction that will inspire us to enhance our environments and provoke a new—or alter an existing—point of view.</p>
<p>I look forward to sharing this amazing journey with all of you and perhaps initiating a fresh way to experience color.</p>
<p align="center"><a href="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/conferences/color/2012/CMC_Brochure_FINAL.pdf"><img src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/email/CMC_Brochure_Cover.jpg" alt="" width="202" height="260" /></a></p>
<p align="center"><em>Please click on the PDF to view conference brochure.</em></p>
<p>Visit <a href="http://www.printing.org/color">www.printing.org/color</a> for more information on <strong>Opposites Attract: The 2013 Sherwin-Williams Colormix</strong><strong>™ Forecast. </strong><a href="http://color.printing.org/">Register</a> today to hear from more keynote speakers from Hallmark Cards, Inc. and Mother Parkers Tea &amp; Coffee Inc., as well as innovative sessions that will show you how to gain control of color. Early Bird registration ends November 3, 2012.</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/10867#commentsGeneralTraining/EducationThu, 11 Oct 2012 12:58:19 +0000mflynn@printing.org10867 at http://blog.printing.orgSocial Media Is Not a Standalone Technology.http://blog.printing.org/blog/10866
<p>Adding a QR code to link your LinkedIn page or to your business card is just one example of fusing social media with your marketing initiatives.</p>
<p>If you’re finding yourself thinking, <em>now why didn’t I think of that?</em>, introduce yourself to the concept fusion marketing, and you won’t get left behind!</p>
<p>The world of social media is evolving, and to be prepared for the future, Lon Safko, CEO, Innovative Thinking, and bestselling author of <em>The Fusion Market Bible</em>, encourages you to discover the totally new concept of “interconnecting” all of your traditional and digital tools!</p>
<p><em>“The Fusion Marketing Bible is the next generation of marketing that brings our 6,000 years of traditional marketing, the exciting digital marketing tools of the Internet, and social media and fully integrates them into one seamless tool set that will accomplish every objective you set!”<br /></em>—Lon Safko, CEO, Innovative Thinking</p>
<p>Printing Industries of America Training Programs is offering a FREE webinar: “<a href="http://www.printing.org/node/10678">The Fusion Marketing Bible—It’s what’s Next!</a>” on Tuesday, October 16. This is the first time Printing Industries of America has offered a free webinar for anyone outside its membership. This is a perfect opportunity for entrepreneurs and business executives to better understand the relationship between traditional media and social media. Fusion Marketing has the tools you need to kick your company into high gear—and get ahead of your competition.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/10866#commentsGeneralTraining/EducationWed, 10 Oct 2012 15:30:14 +0000mflynn@printing.org10866 at http://blog.printing.orgBetter Manage Your Social Media Engagementhttp://blog.printing.org/blog/10861
<p>Some people just don’t “get” social media for business. Sure, they think it’s OK to keep up with Cousin Charlie, but they just haven’t gotten a grasp on how they can use it for marketing or business growth. Facebook isn’t just for catching up with your friends, and Twitter can be more than idle chit-chat. Truth is, intelligent use of social platforms helps a company track who visits the company site, reveals what customers say about the business, showcases a company’s services, and amplifies the message of a printed piece!</p>
<p>You can learn more about social media at <strong><a href="http://www.integratedprintforum.org/">Integrated Print Forum 2012</a>.</strong> This event will take place <em>October 29–30</em> at Printing Industries of America’s headquarters in Sewickley, PA. The focus of the event will be the hottest trends today in the graphic communications industry that you need to implement into your printing business. Sessions will not only focus on social media but on topics such as, the future of <em>digital</em> and how print is a big part of it, the potential goldmine that is the <em>self-publishing</em> boom, the income potential for <em>ePubs</em>, driving business to your website with <em>SEO</em>, <em>branding</em>, and much more.</p>
<p>In its second year, <strong>Integrated Print Forum</strong> is gearing up to be the top event of the year. Renee Berger, Marketing Manager at Western States Envelope &amp; Label, attended the event in 2011 and was so taken by the information she received—and with her experience in the graphic communications industry—she has been invited back in 2012 as a speaker. Her knowledge can help business professionals understand how important social media is for their business, brand, and profits. Here’s what she has to say about this year’s Forum:</p>
<table style="background-color: #fdc4b9;" border="0" align="center">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: center;"><em>“What a great program—I am so excited to participate! Coming from a traditional graphic design and marketing background, I understand marketing is comprised of four facets that I like to call the four Ps: Price, Product, Placement, and Promotion. How does social media fit into your picture? Could it be a fifth category all on its own? I think so. How about another P–People. Social media sits on top of the four Ps— as an ‘integrator’ of all the channels. Whether it’s a first impression, teaching someone about your product or service, or best case, having a ‘brand ally.’ Social media further supports your price model as others will affirm your brand promise. Thinking like the consumer is a valuable part of humanizing any brand, and gaining intelligence about what’s next is really important. Don't miss the opportunities to see what’s next in this excellent Integrated Print Forum–can’t wait to see you there!”</em></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p style="text-align: left;" align="center"><em>Tracking Tools for Super Sleuths: Managing Your Social Engagement</em>, will be the session presented by Renee Berger of Western States Envelope &amp; Label; John Foley of&nbsp; Grow Socially Inc.; David Betz of SocialToaster; and Mary Garnett of Printing Industries of America. This session will provide attendees with the details on how to manage time on social media so that it is beneficial and organized. Hear how savvy companies, such as Western States Envelope &amp; Label, are flourishing with their use of social media management tools. Learn about how to grow customer relationships with Grow Socially. Discover how to significantly increase website traffic and word-of-mouth referrals with tools like SocialToaster. Hear proven tactics from this panel of marketing and social media experts.</p>
<p>This session will be presented on the first day of the Forum, Monday, October 29, at 2:00 p.m. on the main stage.</p>
<p>Don’t forget about the other social-media-related topics being presented:</p>
<ul>
<li><em>Retooling RFID: The New Social Media Amplifier</em>, presented by Patrick Sweeney of ODIN Technologies: Learn how RFID (radio frequency identification) can be used for tracking and even inventory control. Hear of Sweeney’s company’s transition into new markets and why “frictionless” interaction is the next wave in the evolution of social media.<br /><br /></li>
<li><em>A Case of Mixed Medias: All Supporting Your Brand</em>, presented by Daniel Dejan of &nbsp;Sappi Fine&nbsp;Paper North America: Hear the top questions that every printer should be asking about integrating videos into their branding and promotional strategies—their production, cross-media components, and staffing.</li>
<li><em>Breaking the Ice: Social Media, eCommerce and the Power of Ink,</em>presented byJohn Lawson of 3rd Power Outlet: Lawson explains how social media is fast becoming the savvy print business’s tool for navigating the eCommerce world and communicating with your customers on an authentic level.</li>
</ul>
<p><a href="http://www.printing.org/node/10568"><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/conferences/ci/reg.png" alt="" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/10861#commentsGeneralConferencesWed, 03 Oct 2012 13:36:19 +0000mflynn@printing.org10861 at http://blog.printing.orgBest Workplace in the Americas Program—Your Link to Successhttp://blog.printing.org/blog/10854
<p><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/images/PIA/logos/BWA.jpg" alt="" width="200" height="164" /></p>
<p>The facts are clear: employees are happier and more financially secure when their company is truly invested in them. Is your workplace invested in its employees? It’s time to find out!</p>
<p>If you have a great workplace, now is the time to showcase what you have done for your employees by entering the 2012 Best Workplace in the Americas Program. Please send your entry through a traceable means.</p>
<p>Visit <a href="http://www.printing.org/bwa">www.printing.org/bwa</a> to download the entry form. You will need:</p>
<ul>
<li>A brief summary statement—highlighting why your company is a Best Workplace</li>
<li>Employee Handbook (required)</li>
<li>Supporting Materials (optional)—anything that you think would help the judges understand your HR policies and practices. Items may include, but are not limited to: company newsletters, employee testimonials, program descriptions, outlines and results, goal statements, etc.</li>
<li>Payment of the entry fee (for more information, <a href="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/Awards/2012_BWA_Brochure.pdf">download the brochure</a> for the Fee Schedule)</li>
</ul>
<p>For past winners, the benefits of the Best Workplace in the Americas Program have been immeasurable:</p>
<p>“Our employees are very important to us! Being able to provide them with a safe work environment, great benefits, and many company perks helps us show them how much we care about them. Communicorp has won Best of the Best eight out of the last ten years, and we are proud to share this success with our employees!”</p>
<p>Robin Scrivner, HR<br />Communicorm, Inc.</p>
<p>“The Best Workplace in the Americas competition helps Vox to keep our focus on our company’s most valuable asset—our people. We believe if our coworkers are trained, encouraged, and motivated, we can continue to grow our customer and vendor relationships that provide the foundation for the success we have been able to achieve so far. We look forward to challenging ourselves to become an even better place to work each year. “</p>
<p>David Reid, President<br />Vox Printing, Inc.</p>
<p>What’s more—all entrants, winners and non-winners, receive the <em>Best Practices of the Best Workplaces</em> book. This publication highlights the judges’ favorite programs and policies, a benefit to everyone who has entered. See what caught the eye of the judges, and maybe even “borrow” an idea or two!</p>
<p>The deadline for entries is October 26, 2012. <a href="http://www.printing.org/bwa">Enter today</a>!</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/10854#commentsGeneralHuman RelationsTue, 02 Oct 2012 17:05:22 +0000mflynn@printing.org10854 at http://blog.printing.orgIf color management is important to you…http://blog.printing.org/blog/10851
<p>&nbsp;<img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/email/2012_CMC_Banner_Ad.jpg" alt="" width="642" height="150" /></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Quick, can you recall the last time you made a purchase? What did the ad look like?</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Tests show that color images hold the consumer’s attention for two seconds or more, while black and white images sustain interest for less than two-thirds of a second. Color is important to our customers’ brands, products, and materials. It is a part of our daily lives. Therefore, achieving consistent, accurate color reproduction is essential to our industry. Color is perception, and as part of our commitment to serve this industry, one of the valuable resources we offer is to help you gain control and improve your management of color.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">If accurate color reproduction is important in your business, watch as Dave Dezzutti, Technology and Research Analyst, Printing Industries of America and an experienced color expert, demonstrates how the spectrophotometer helps print professionals like you in our on-site, state-of-the-art printing facility. Dave will be presenting at both <strong>GRAPH EXPO 2012, held October 7–10, in Chicago, IL</strong> (Booth #4045) and the <strong>2012 Color Management Conference, December 1–4, in Scottsdale, AZ</strong>.</span></p>
<p><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q4FpLv596lM&amp;feature=share&amp;list=UU4P6Rvg2XKvqPqzNPV-y2Qg"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><img style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto; display: block;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/email/DaveDezzuttiColorVideoScreen.jpg" alt="" /></span></a></p>
<p style="text-align: left;" align="center"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">Let us help you color your world—and save your company time and money, too! If color management is important to you and your company, see what awaits you at the <a href="http://color.printing.org/">2012 Color Management Conference</a>.</span></p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/10851#commentsGeneralConferencesMon, 01 Oct 2012 15:33:58 +0000mflynn@printing.org10851 at http://blog.printing.orgePublishing versus Self-Publishing http://blog.printing.org/blog/10838
<p>ePublishing vs. Self-publishing. These two topics can seem frightening to people in the graphic communications industry. Some people look at ePublishing as, well, an enemy, while others feel that self-publishing is dead. The truth is, offering either one of these services are just another great potential revenue stream for printers and publishers with the right business plan and technical know-how.</p>
<p><strong>ePublishing</strong><br />Mobile devices and tablets are a hot item today! Half of all cell phones in the U.S. are smartphones, and a quarter of those smartphone owners also use a tablet device—by 2014 experts predict 20% of all U.S. consumers will own a tablet! While people want their content in print, they also look to consume their content from these popular devices. The questions isn’t, “What has gone digital,” but rather, “What has <em>not</em> gone digital?”&nbsp; Not only have newspapers and magazines provided consumers with digital offerings, but books have essentially followed suite. Today, e-books are one of the fastest growing areas of book sales. &nbsp;</p>
<p>There is enormous potential around epublishing, and it is imperative for anyone in the print communication industry to investigate this potentially lucrative service offering. Don’t feel threatened by this growing trend, take advantage of it. ePublishing is a great opportunity for your business.</p>
<p><strong>Self-Publishing<br /></strong>While people may think that self-publishing is dead, it is actually just the opposite—<em>it is thriving.</em> In the last few years, self-publishing has continued to grow at an exciting rate while creating opportunities for both publishers and printers</p>
<p>Establishing a self-publishing center for your business can create new revenue streams that you may have not even thought about yet. This great business opportunity can put printers in the controls to provide their clients the direction they need for a successful self-publishing campaign.</p>
<p><strong>Get the Skinny On these Exciting Business Opportunities</strong><br />Learn first-hand how you can be a forward-thinking printer and adopt these revenue-generating services at the upcoming Integrated Print Forum 2012, October 29-30. This two-day event will give you the insight on how to take the mystery out of your future. Become a detective and scope out today’s hottest business trends and new opportunities in the graphic communications industry. Speakers will have the intel on how to keep print in the mix, while providing your clients with new, integrated printing services. The entire event will be dedicated to offering real strategies around new business options, including ePublishing and self-publishing, with a focus on providing tactics to take back to your business in which you can apply immediately.</p>
<p>At the Forum, attend the session, <em>Don’t Fear the Tablet! ePublishing Trends &amp; Tactics.</em> This informative session will be presented by business strategist Peter Muir, of Bizucate, Inc., who will talk with John Bell, of Ovid Bell Press, Graham Blanks of DALIM, and Joe Fontana of Mosaic about the real-world potential in offering ePub services. This session will take place on day one of the event, Monday, October 29, at 1:00 p.m. on the main stage. You don’t want to miss it!</p>
<p>Get more information about self-publishing at the Forum by attending the session, <em>Jump aboard the Self-Publishing Growth Engine</em>! This session will be presented by John Conley of Xerox Corporation and Tod Shuttleworth of Thomas Nelson, Inc. In this session, you’ll hear how major book publisher Thomas Nelson embraced self-publishing to create new revenue streams and develop its own “bestselling” authors. John Conley and Tod Shuttleworth have worked with the Book Print and Publishing business for over 35 years and will show you how <em>any</em> printer can develop its own self-publishing center to take advantage of this still largely-untapped revenue generating opportunity.</p>
<p>Get the inside scoop on self-publishing from speaker John Conley. We recently spoke with John Conley, who is responsible for setting both the direction and the action plans for Xerox Graphic Arts as it relates to both the development and execution of Book Solutions at Xerox. He works directly with the customers, sales, marketing, and manufacturing. <a href="http://www.printing.org/page/10836">Read our interview</a> to hear what he has to say.</p>
<p>For more information on Integrated Print Forum, and to view a complete listing of sessions, visit <a href="http://www.printing.org/integratedprint">www.printing.org/integratedprint</a>.</p>
<p><a href="http://printing.org./integratedprint"><img style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto; display: block;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/conferences/ci/reg.png" alt="" width="175" height="53" /></a></p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/10838#commentsGeneralDigital Printing CouncilThu, 20 Sep 2012 13:25:39 +0000mflynn@printing.org10838 at http://blog.printing.orgTake a Crash Course in Inkjet Printing!http://blog.printing.org/blog/10833
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;">Inkjet printing is a $33.4 billion market today and is <em>forecast to double by 2017</em>! Signage is the largest sector in the inkjet printing realm, representing 57% of the market in 2011, much of it printed on flatbed inkjet presses. But the types of work a flatbed device can produce are almost endless.</span></span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;">Take a crash course covering everything you need to know to get up to speed on flatbed inkjet--including a review of everything from the types of machines, inks, and finishing equipment out there to real-world applications and markets that you can jump into!<br /><br /></span><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;"><a href="http://www.printing.org/node/10715"> Flatbed Inkjet — A Crash Course for Print Service Providers</a>&nbsp;</span><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;">will be presented by Printing Industry of America’s Julie Shaffer, Vice President of Digital Technologies. </span></span></p>
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<td style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><strong><a href="http://www.printing.org/node/10715">Flatbed Inkjet — A Crash Course </a><br /><a href="http://www.printing.org/node/10715">for Print Service Providers </a><br /></strong><strong>Sponsored by Océ <br /></strong>October 2, 2012 2:00 PM Eastern </span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">FREE for Printing Industries of America Members </span><br /><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;">$99 for non-members</span></td>
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<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.printing.org/node/10715"><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;">Register</span></a><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;">&nbsp;</span><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;">for this webinar and learn how to get in on this very profitable business opportunity!</span></span></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/10833#commentsGeneralTraining/EducationWed, 19 Sep 2012 18:27:39 +0000mflynn@printing.org10833 at http://blog.printing.orgQuality Is the Servanthttp://blog.printing.org/blog/10790
<p><em>This article, contributed by<strong> John Compton, Master Lean/Six Sigma Black Belt</strong>, looks at the relationship between </em>technology<em> and the practice of </em>continuous improvement<em>. He demonstrates why, although technology drives your business, maintaining quality is essential to gaining a competitive edge.</em> <em>John is an independent consultant for Printing Industries of America, conference consultant for its Continuous Improvement Conference, industry veteran with executive-level experience, and professor emeritus of Rochester Institute of Technology.</em></p>
<p>I learned early in my career a simple but important truth about the practice of quality: <em>technology is the master and quality is the servant</em>. By that I mean the goods and services we are able to provide to the marketplace are profoundly impacted by technology and its influence on our materials and equipment. It could be said that technology is what permits us to have a business. Our customers buy the printed products we produce and the benefits those products bring to their businesses. That’s why we call ourselves printing and or packaging companies, not quality companies.&nbsp;</p>
<p>On the other hand, quality is the servant in that there will always be a need to improve whatever systems that technology has allowed us to create. There will always be a need to produce products with fewer defects, shorter lead times, and fewer mistakes. And there will always be a need to deliver our services with fewer errors and in a more customer-friendly manner. All systems need improvement on a continual basis. None of our processes and operations—for as technologically advanced as they may be—are free from mistakes, errors, downtime, and other cost-generating problems. Yes, technology is the giant that drives our industry, but the practice of continual process improvement is what serves to achieve and sustain competitive position and profits.</p>
<p>Quality improvement practices such as Lean manufacturing, six sigma, and ISO9000 bring needed discipline and structure to our businesses. Numerous presentations made at the recent Printing Industries of America Continuous Improvement Conference provided evidence of just how well they do apply to our industry. One case in particular involved a company that had recently moved to a new all-digital workflow. The new technology was providing benefits in time and cost reduction but was failing to achieve the levels they had originally targeted. The quality improvement manager and his staff diagramed the workflow, identified the critical control points, established measures of performance, and employed a PLAN-DO-STUDY-ACT approach to continually improve this state-of-the-art digital production process. Significant gains in productivity were attained and sustained. A simple example of how technology is the master and quality is the servant.</p>
<p>Remember, any company can buy equipment and the technology that drives it. But without a strategy and structure to continually improve upon its performance, a company’s rate of improvement is <span style="text-decoration: underline;">limited</span> by that same technology. Think of it this way: <em>your ability to achieve rates of improvement in your systems and processes that are greater than your competitors’ may be your only path to sustainable competitive advantage</em>. That’s why I’m such a strong proponent of quality improvement as a discipline that no business can do without. It’s the servant that exists to help us achieve rapid, continual improvement regardless of our materials, processes, or technology.</p>
<p>If continuous improvement is a priority in your business, Printing Industries of America has resources for you:</p>
<p><strong>Printing Industries of America’s Center for Technology and Research Consultation Services</strong></p>
<p>800-910-4283, ext. 711 or <a href="mailto:consulting@printing.org">consulting@printing.org</a>.</p>
<p>To speak directly with Karen J. Keller, Senior Training/Consulting Specialist, call <strong>412-259-1711,</strong> or email at <a href="mailto:kkeller@printing.org">kkeller@printing.org</a>.</p>
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<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://ci.printing.org/"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: medium;"><strong>The Continuous Improvement Conference</strong></span></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: medium;">April 7–10, 2013 Indianapolis, IN, Indianapolis Downtown Marriott</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: medium;">For more information on the 2013 Continuous Improvement Conference, contact Jim Workman at 800-910-4283 ext. 710 or <a href="mailto:jworkman@printing.org">jworkman@printing.org</a>.</span></p>
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<p><a href="mailto:consulting@printing.org"><img style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto; display: block;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/blog/ConslutingColorKitFlyerCI-Pages_v2.jpg" alt="" width="500" height="649" /></a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/10790#commentsGeneralResearch and TechnologyThu, 06 Sep 2012 20:34:40 +0000mflynn@printing.org10790 at http://blog.printing.orgSustainability Matters. Become SGP-Certified (before your clients demand it).http://blog.printing.org/blog/10779
<p><span style="font-family: arial,helvetica,sans-serif; font-size: small;"><em><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;">To better serve our members and industry, Printing Industries of America is proud to support Sustainable Green Printing (SGP) Partnership. The SGP Partnership is an industry-specific, voluntary program designed to reduce the environmental impact and increase social responsibility of the print and graphic communications industry. The Partnership certifies printers against specific criteria and requires printers to commit to making continuous improvement in the product, process, and envelope areas of the graphic arts industry.</span>The following is contributed by SGP.</em></span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><img style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto; display: block;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/email/sgp.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="125" /><br /><span style="font-size: medium;"><strong>SGP-Certified Printers Make a Difference</strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: small;"><em>SGP Certification does more than reduce your environmental footprint. Your business will operate more&nbsp;<br />efficiently and save you money. Use SGP Certification to satisfy your current customers and increase&nbsp;<br />opportunities to win new ones.</em></span><strong><br /></strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><strong><br /><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.sgppartnership.org/become-certified/"><em>Become Certified</em></a><em>. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;</em><a href="http://www.sgppartnership.org/find-a-certified-facility/why-buy-certified/"><em>Preference Certified Facilities</em></a><em>. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;</em><a href="http://www.sgppartnership.org/patrons/"><em>Support SGP</em></a><em>.&nbsp;</em></span></strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">“<em>Printing is renewable, reusable, and recyclable. Last year we printed enough materials to plant well over half a million new trees, and we are 100% landfill free, thanks to SGP. This has resulted in tremendous savings and efficiencies, while doing our part to improve the environment. Our SGP Certification is just one more reason why our customers choose us as their partner</em>.”&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: right;">-- Sharon Tucker,&nbsp;&nbsp; Alcom Printing,&nbsp;<br />A leading provider of print, direct mail marketing and business development solutions<strong> <br /><img style="width: 289px; height: 53px; float: right;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/email/Alcom_Logo.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="62" /><br /><br /></strong></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: left;">“<em>As a land conservation organization, it's very important that our publications are produced as “green” as possible. We are extremely impressed by Alcom’s commitment to sustainability. They carefully analyze and manage every part of&nbsp;&nbsp; their processes, including sourcing sustainable papers and inks, managing a net-zero landfill contribution plant, using software-based proofing systems to minimizing the use of fuel, and using ultra-energy-efficient equipment and building design. And they've been able to expertly guide us to ensure that the printing process of our publications reflects our own commitment to be good stewards of the earth.</em>”&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: right;">-- Willistown Conservation Trust<br /><img style="float: right;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/email/WCT_logo.png" alt="" width="363" height="56" /></p>
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<p style="text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">Learn more:</span></strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"><strong>Register now for our next EHS workshop&nbsp;<a href="http://www.printing.org/node/10065"><strong>Safety Matters: OSHA Compliance for Printers</strong></a>&nbsp;on<strong>&nbsp;<em>September 18–19, 2012.</em></strong></strong></span></p>
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<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.sgppartnership.org/about-sgp/"><img src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/email/sgp.jpg" alt="" width="275" height="100" /></a><a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/SGPpartnership"><img src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/email/sgp_play.jpg" alt="" width="275" height="100" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://cl.s4.exct.net/?qs=0ef7bc2b432310e663e18298c8511b132f636283e569e51fe8d8c5213861ee0d"><img src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/email/linkedIn_btn.png" alt="" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Certifying Sustainable Print Facilities in the Graphic Communications Industry</p>
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<p style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/10779#commentsGeneralGreen and SustainabilityTue, 04 Sep 2012 16:02:27 +0000mflynn@printing.org10779 at http://blog.printing.orgSubscribe to the SRA Listserv for Compliance News, Tips for Sustainable Management, and More!http://blog.printing.org/blog/10756
<p>Printing is a dynamic industry that creates new experiences, challenges, and issues for those who work in it. For a printing business to remain competitive, it is important to stay informed, especially on sustainable business practices and regulatory compliance topics. Printing Industries of America is happy to provide a resource for its members to stay up to date with the latest in sustainable and regulatory compliance news for the printing community in the form of a listserv.</p>
<p>There are a number of environmental and safety regulations impacting the printing industry, and agencies are continuously issuing new rules and enforcing standards. To avoid the costly risk of being out of compliance, they require constant monitoring and response strategies.</p>
<p>It’s just as vital to stay up to date with sustainability news in the printing community. Customers are becoming more concerned with the environmental impact of products, and companies are finding innovative ways to adopt economical sustainable management practices that improve their operation and business.</p>
<p>The <em>Sustainable and Regulatory Affairs </em>Listserv provides member companies with important information impacting the printing industry from the Printing Industries Environmental, Health, and Safety Affairs Department. It also provides an opportunity for members to share their own expertise, tips, or concerns with the Printing Industries of America EHS staff and fellow EHS community members in the printing industry.</p>
<p>Want to join? Simply send an email with the subject “Subscribe SRA Listserv” to Caitlin Seiler, Environmental, Health, and Safety Specialist at <a href="mailto:cseiler@printing.org">cseiler@printing.org</a>. If you’re already a member of the Safety Listserv you will automatically be a part of this group, there is no need to rejoin.</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/10756#commentsGeneralGreen and SustainabilityMon, 20 Aug 2012 18:15:50 +0000mflynn@printing.org10756 at http://blog.printing.org12 New Technologies Predicted to Change the Graphic Communications Industryhttp://blog.printing.org/blog/10733
<p>Since 1978, the <a href="http://www.printing.org/InterTech">InterTech™ Technology Awards</a> have proven that printing technology is alive and well and making an enormous impact on the industry to reduce costs, improve performance, and pursue new markets. Over the years, 273 technologies have been selected by the judges to receive this prestigious award.</p>
<p>This year is no exception. We want to take this time to recognize the 12 innovative recipients of the 2012 InterTech Technology Award for their contributions to the performance of the graphic communication industry. They are truly “Stars” in the field of innovation.</p>
<p><strong>Take a Tour Through Innovation Excellence: </strong></p>
<p>To see each of the 12 new technologies that are predicted to change the graphic communication industry, watch this short video.</p>
<p><a href="http://prnt.in/Zn6"><img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/email/2012_IntertechWin.png" alt="" width="384" height="234" /></a></p>
<p><strong>And the 2012 Recipients are:</strong></p>
<p>In case you missed any, here are those technologies listed alphabetically by company, with the technology named first. Congratulations to the 2012 InterTech Technology Award recipients:</p>
<ol>
<li><strong>Kodak NexPress Red Fluorescing Solution</strong><em><br />Eastman Kodak Company</em><br /><br />The Kodak NexPress Red Fluorescing Solution lets printers easily add security to printed documents, direct mail, and packaging. The virtually invisible dry ink fluoresces red when illuminated with ultraviolet light. The judges singled out the technology for its simple and low-cost approach to adding counterfeit protection.<br /><br /></li>
<li><strong>Enterworks<sup>®</sup> Enable</strong><em><br />Enterworks, Inc.</em><br /><br />Enterworks Enable allows a company to manage complex product information, associated images, and other marketing assets. The Web-based software then automates the delivery of this selling content through print and e-commerce channels. One judge commented: “This is robust enterprise-level product information management software that is extremely configurable.”<br /><br /><br /></li>
<li><strong><em>i</em>-cut Suite</strong><em><br />Esko</em><em><br /><br />i</em>-cut Suite is a collection of workflow software for users of large-format digital printers. It gives companies the essential tools to maintain efficiency and productivity. “This is complete workflow designed specifically for large format at a reasonable price,” noted a judge.<br /><br /><br /></li>
<li><strong>Fujifilm J Press 720</strong><em><br />FUJIFILM North America Corporation</em><br /><br />The J Press 720 is the world’s first half-size sheetfed inkjet press. It produces accurate and consistent color work with virtually no makeready waste. The judges singled out the J Press for its pioneering role in what is expected to be a major pressroom shift to inkjet.<br /><br /><br /></li>
<li><strong>Prinect Performance Benchmarking</strong><em><br />Heidelberg USA</em><br /><br />Prinect Performance Benchmarking is a subscription-based application that lets companies compare the performance of their Speedmaster presses and operators with other printers. Said one InterTech judge: “No one else offers this … it is worth its weight in gold for the printer that takes true advantage of benchmarking.”<br /><br /><br /></li>
<li><strong>Keen MIS and Web-to-Print</strong><em><br />Keen Systems, Inc.</em><br /><br />Keen MIS and Web-to-Print software is a cloud-based platform that allows companies to pick a subscription plan and begin creating storefronts in minutes. The judges praised the cloud-based and SaaS approach, the additional functionality from plug-ins, and the easy-to-use interface.<br /><br /><br /></li>
<li><strong>Color Control and Web Inspection System with AccuCam</strong><em><br />QuadTech, Inc.</em><br /><br />The QuadTech system uses a spectral sensor to examine the entire printed image, without the need for control bars. It monitors color and adjusts inking while detecting a variety of print issues, including switched plates. The judges hailed its unique ability to spot scumming and automatically adjust water.<br /><br /></li>
<li><strong>SunPak LMQ</strong><em><br />Sun Chemical</em><em><br />Sun Chemical</em><br /><br />SunPak LMQ (Low Migration Quality) technology minimizes the risk of contamination to food and other products from chemical migration. “Inks, coatings, and fountain solution leeching into products can be disastrous for packaging converters and brand owners,” commented one judge. “Sun’s innovative LMQ system and products will help protect companies worldwide.”<br /><br /><br /></li>
<li><strong>iTechnique</strong><em><br />Technique Business Systems Ltd.</em><br /><br />iTechniqueis a management information system running on iPhone and iPad as a native App, allowing users access to sales and production data wherever they are. “Being able to provide a complete MIS application via mobile delivery is a significant innovation, the synchronization to use it off-line being a key feature,” stated a judge.<br /><br /><br /></li>
<li><strong>Avatrex Transportable Imaging</strong><em><br />Utopia Digital Technologies</em><br /><br />Avatrex Transportable Imaging is a thin multi-layer coating on a removable carrier that can be digitally printed and transferred to practically any surface. The material has built in adhesive and image protection properties. The judges were wowed by the technology’s versatility and image quality.<br /><br /></li>
<li><strong>Xeikon X-800 VariLane</strong><em><br />Xeikon</em><br /><br />Xeikon’s VariLane technology is a software add-on to its X-800 Digital Front End. It allows printers to combine labels of different SKUs and sizes on the same digital print run. The judges recognized the advantages for printers when they can dynamically impose labels on the digital front end.<br /><br /><br /></li>
<li><strong>i1Pro 2</strong><em><br />X-Rite, Incorporated</em><br /><br />The i1Pro 2 spectrophotometer introduces a new level of color accuracy, an expanded set of features, and supports the latest measurement standards. When using this instrument, the ability to measure and then manage optically brightened papers was particularly impressive to the judges.</li>
</ol>
<p>Printing Industries of America would like to thank everyone who took part in the 2012 InterTech Technology Awards. We hope you will be at GRAPH EXPO, October 7, 2012, where recipients will be presented&nbsp; with an InterTech Technology Award Star as part of the 2012 Premier Print Awards Gala featuring the InterTech™ Technology Awards and web2awards.</p>
<p>For more information about the InterTech Technology Awards, contact Jim Workman, assistant vice president, Center for Technology and Research, Printing Industries of America, at 412-259-1710, <a href="mailto:intertech@printing.org">intertech@printing.org</a>, or visit <a href="http://www.printing.org/InterTech">www.printing.org/InterTech</a>.</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/10733#commentsGeneralResearch and TechnologyMon, 06 Aug 2012 13:08:24 +0000mflynn@printing.org10733 at http://blog.printing.orgRyan T. Sauers explains the importance of two-way communications in saleshttp://blog.printing.org/blog/10731
<p><em>The following is contributed by Ryan T. Sauers, President and Owner of Sauers Consulting Strategies</em></p>
<p>The entire sales process is often looked down on by many due to pushy, gimmicky, and unethical salespersons who create a bad name for the overall and traditional sales profession. Most salespersons I know, however, have a great passion for their endeavor and try to perform it as honestly and ethically as possible. You see, ethical sales = great communications. Our communications must provide the 5 Cs of effective communications: Clarity, Consistency, Content, Connection and Creativity. If our communications are not clear, lack content, are inconsistent, do not provide connections, and lack creativity, we are not getting the job done.</p>
<p>Sales is all about two-way communications—with an “s” —and a two-way dialogue, not one-way communication (singular) and a monologue. Success in sales/communications is not about how much you talk, but about how much you listen. It’s not about how many times you share how great your company is, but how many problems and headaches you can solve.&nbsp;<img style="width: 196px; height: 269px; float: right;" src="http://www.printing.org/sites/default/files/EveryoneIsinSales.jpg" alt="" width="1210" height="2168" /></p>
<p>Sales/communications (plural) is about relationships and integrity. It’s about solving root issues by asking intelligent “why” questions. This <em>Everyone is in Sales</em> mindset is about being a strong overall communicator and adapting one’s communications style to best meet the needs of the other person. In short, <em>Everyone Is in Sales</em> because we all have information that we desire to share with other people. We want to be understood, right? Are you sold yet?</p>
<p><em>Ryan T. Sauers is President and Owner of Sauers Consulting Strategies. Before launching the independent consulting firm, Ryan spent nearly 20 years leading graphics, MSP, and visual communications companies. The company consults with graphics related organizations across the United States. He is the author of </em><strong>Everyone Is in Sales</strong>,<em> available at the Printing Industries of America bookstore. For more info, visit www.ryansauers.com </em></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/10731#commentsGeneralPublicationsThu, 02 Aug 2012 15:14:38 +0000mflynn@printing.org10731 at http://blog.printing.orgLet Your Voice Be Heard. Urge Congress to Pass Postal Reform Now!http://blog.printing.org/blog/10725
<p>As many of you know, postal reform has been slow moving in Congress this summer. Accordingly, Printing Industries of America’s Government Affairs team has been busy on Capitol Hill, trying to encourage lawmakers to stop the political messaging and pass <a href="http://www.printing.org/news/10698">H.R. 2309, the Postal Reform Act of 2011</a>. &nbsp;The Senate has done its part and passed its bill, but postal reform cannot become law until the House acts. A bill is ready to go, but election-year politics are making it very unlikely that the House will bring postal reform legislation to a floor vote this summer. As a result, we have voiced our concerns regarding the disastrous consequences this delay would pose to the printing and graphic communications industry—and to the overall future viability of the U.S. Postal Service. <br /><br />Now it’s time for you to tell lawmakers to pass postal reform now! The month of August is a crucial time to reach out to lawmakers and staff while they are “back home.” That’s why we’re launching a multi-level August campaign to tell Congress that “Postal Reform = Jobs.” The goal of the campaign is to urge the House to bring H.R. 2309 to a vote as soon as possible when they get back to Washington in September. To help you get involved, we are launching the campaign with the webinar <a href="https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/381118353"><strong>Printing Industry Call to Action: The August Campaign for Postal Reform</strong></a>, on Tuesday, August 7, at 2:00 EST. <em>There is no cost for member companies to participate.<br /><br /></em>Join us for a brief legislative update and gain access to the August campaign grassroots toolkit. Learn easy, step-by-step tactics to mobilize your employees, customers, and community, to create the groundswell needed to push postal reform over the goal line in 2012.<br /><br />Don’t let inaction derail the vital need to pass meaningful postal reform. Let your voice be heard and make it count by <a href="https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/381118353">registering</a> for this important industry webinar. Together, we can urge Congress to pass postal reform now!</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/10725#commentsGeneralGovernment AffairsMon, 30 Jul 2012 17:09:00 +0000mflynn@printing.org10725 at http://blog.printing.orgThinking of Using a Consultant to Solve Your Color-Related Issues? You’re Not Alone.http://blog.printing.org/blog/10714
<p><img style="float: right;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/email/dezzutti_dave.jpg" alt="" />Does this sound familiar?</p>
<p><em>“We knew we weren’t as efficient as we could be. <strong>We were experiencing long makereadies and jobs were being rejected because the color consistency across processes and devices was non-existent.</strong> We had the best of intentions to make improvements, however between difficulties in finding time and not knowing how to get our arms around the issues, we procrastinated. It wasn’t until we risked losing our biggest client that we were forced to reach out for help. With outside support, we turned it around! <strong>Our client relationship was saved, finally we have consistent color, faster makereadies, and less waste in time and materials.</strong> If only we had done this sooner! Times are too challenging not be deadly serious about becoming a smarter, better-run company.”</em></p>
<p align="right"><em>-- CEO, XYZ Printing</em></p>
<p>This is a common sentiment. Companies know they need to improve and search for solutions for better color management, but they falter when the time comes to put solutions in place that will make a long-term difference. In the end, after months of stalled efforts, no ground has been gained, and they are left wondering if anyone else has similar struggles they could learn from?</p>
<p>The answer is yes! <strong>The majority of problems are not unique</strong>; others have gone through the same challenges. So, rather than wasting any more time, money, and resources, find someone you can trust to provide help! Someone who can identify the root cause of vexing problems, recommend solutions, provide implementation support, and get you on your way to efficiency and profitability. Whether through staff training, use of new technology, developing procedures, or doing that strategic planning you keep putting off, the right consultant can provide a fresh perspective that will guide you to solutions that are tough to see from the trenches.</p>
<p>In what ways can our trained consultants help your company improve?</p>
<ul>
<li>Providing independent, unbiased assessments and working with you to solve your issues.</li>
<li>Focusing on improvements that will strengthen your competitive advantage.</li>
<li>Benchmarking your improvements.</li>
<li>Developing new skills in your employees.</li>
<li>Implementing new technology.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Efficiency + Quality + Productivity = Profitability!</strong> Avoid the “If only I had called for help sooner” syndrome and proactively seek training and consulting that will impact employee performance and ultimately the company’s profitability! You’ll be glad you did, and so will your bottom line!</p>
<p><em>For more information or to take advantage of Printing Industries of America’s Center for Technology and Research consultation services, contact Karen J. Keller, Senior Training/Consulting Specialist <strong>at 412-259-1711,</strong> or </em><a href="mailto:kkeller@printing.org"><em>kkeller@printing.org</em></a><em>. </em></p>
<p>If you are searching for training on enhancing your color management or digital production, we have educational resources for you as well:</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Optimizing Color for Your Digital Press Workshop</strong><br />September 25–26, 2012</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.printing.org/node/10068"><img src="http://www.printing.org/sites/default/files/optclrbtn.jpg" alt="" width="220" height="190" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Extreme Offset: Color, Control, Optimize<br /></strong>October 16–18, 2012<br /><a href="http://training.printing.org/page/10048"><img src="http://www.printing.org/sites/default/files/extreme_offset_button_ad.jpg" alt="" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Orientation to the Graphic Arts</strong><br />October 22–25, 2012</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.printing.org/node/10067"><img src="http://www.printing.org/sites/default/files/2012_oga_button_ad.jpg" alt="" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>2012 Color Management Conference<br /></strong>December 1–4, 2012</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://color.printing.org/"><img src="http://www.printing.org/sites/default/files/2012_cmc_button_ad.jpg" alt="" /></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">&nbsp;<em>See Printing Industries of America’s </em><a href="http://www.printing.org/events"><em>Events Calendar</em></a><em> for all of our upcoming training and events.</em></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/10714#commentsGeneralTraining/EducationThu, 19 Jul 2012 14:51:47 +0000mflynn@printing.org10714 at http://blog.printing.orgAnd the Winner For the Best Print-Centric Website Is...http://blog.printing.org/blog/10562
<p>The quality of print-centric websites is just getting more creative and technically advanced. They are able to provide customers with an extraordinary product. Just take a look at <a href="http://jrxmedia.com/">The John Roberts Company</a>, <a href="http://www.mimeo.com/">Mimeo</a>, and <a href="http://www.wellsdrew.com/">Wells and Drew</a>.<img style="float: right;" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7061/7002908573_2e1b8db36a_n.jpg" alt="" width="320" height="180" /></p>
<p>These companies happen to be winners of our <a href="http://dpc.printing.org/page/9170">web2award</a>. This is the only award of its kind that honors the best websites in the print/marketing service provider industry. Winning one means that your company receives benefits like prestige, publicity, and, not to mention, an applause-worthy statue!&nbsp;</p>
<p>You could say that winning a web2award is like winning an Oscar but even better for a print service provider like you. That’s why we created this <a href="http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL306F2A3DDA781915&amp;feature=plcp">video series</a>—featuring some excited “winners”—to showcase some of the award categories you can enter this year.</p>
<p><strong>Print Service Provider’s Business Website Category (E-Commerce)<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gWlKVt5V5NQ&amp;feature=plcp"><img style="float: right;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/email/web2awardsVideo2.jpg" alt="" /></a></strong></p>
<p>If your company developed its own <strong>print-centric e-commerce solution</strong> (<em>there is also a No E-Commerce</em>Component category)or built, hosted, or branded one for a customer, how would you like 10,000 print buyers and marketing professionals to know about this capability?</p>
<p>You can shout it from the rooftops when you enter and win the 2012 web2awards. View this video to learn more about the E-commerce Component category and discover the benefits of winning, which include:</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Social Commerce Category</strong></p>
<p>As you know, Facebook, Twitter, and other social media platforms<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J5OAPG9LfzI&amp;feature=plcp"><img style="float: right;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/email/2012_web2award_part3.jpg" alt="" /></a> are a great way to engage customers and increase traffic to your website. As a result of the explosion of social media, we have added a new category to the 2012 web2awards competition—<strong>Social Commerce.</strong></p>
<p>Awards in this category will be for sites that directly sell print and related products through Facebook (F-commerce), Twitter (T-commerce), or other social media platforms that allow users to buy directly through the social site.</p>
<p>Learn more about this new category in this video, which features a very “social” award winner. She is so excited about her win that she literally has to be dragged off the stage.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Social Media/Cross Media/Promotional Case Study Category<br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-xkRZncCR5Q&amp;feature=youtu.be"><img style="float: right;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/email/web2award_part4.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="210" /></a></strong><br />Awards in this category will be for sites that can best demonstrate how a company’s print-centric social media efforts, cross-media campaign, and/or promotional website have met or exceeded company objectives, with quantifiable results. Please provide details on all components of the campaign in the details section of this entry form.</p>
<p>Speaking of magic, take a moment to view this video and see how performing magic for your customers can win you a web2award. “Prepare to be amazed!” by our own Sam Shea</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>As a winner, you receive benefits including:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Press release announcing winners—distributed to industry-related publications</li>
<li>Listing on the Digital Printing Council website with links to winner’s website</li>
<li>A YouTube video, included in Printing Industries of America’s e-newsletter sent to thousands of graphic communications contacts</li>
<li>Use of the web2awards winner logo on promotional materials</li>
<li><strong>New in 2012!</strong> Winners will be listed in the 2012 Premier Print Awards publication—sent to 10,000 print buyers across the country</li>
</ul>
<p>The entry deadline is <strong><em>Friday, June 15</em>.</strong> For more information and to enter, visit <a href="http://www.printing.org/web2awards"><strong>www.printing.org/web2awards</strong></a> or call Sam Shea at 800-910-4283, ext. 747.</p>
<p>We look forward to receiving your entries!</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/10562#commentsGeneralDigital MediaTue, 29 May 2012 15:17:25 +0000mflynn@printing.org10562 at http://blog.printing.orgSpeaker Bill Weiners discusses Workflow Automation Successhttp://blog.printing.org/blog/10556
<p>Attendees at the upcoming <a title="http://www.printing.org/automation" href="http://www.printing.org/automation" target="_blank">Automation Solutions Network</a> meeting, May 2-3 in Las Vegas, NV, will hear Bill Wieners, president of Digital Lizard, describe his company’s remarkable use of automation.</p>
<p>Digital Lizard’s experience should make every company take notice.<img style="float: right;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/email/prints_work.jpg" alt="" width="150" height="225" />Its workflow automation boosted productivity from an average of 175 orders to over 400 orders per day, while still meeting its promise—all orders placed by 10:30 PST are delivered the next day across the country. Wieners attributes their Web-2-print software for the company’s productivity increase. Digital Lizard chose their software based on capabilities not only with their existing facility, but with future expansion in mind. The software allowed them to customize modules and optimize settings. The result for its bottom line was an additional revenue stream – from storefronts. They have customized 190 storefront solutions, and their experts will take about two hours to have a live storefront up and running for their customers. Listen and discuss at the meeting as he explains how the company manages to get a job on press eight minutes after the order is received and to complete the job in less than one hour. The ability for this software to reduce human interaction and touchpoints along the process allows for profitability. It churns out that production with 14 digital presses but only 27 total employees.</p>
<p title="Japs-Olson meeting page">For more information about the meeting and to register, visit the <a href="http://www.printing.org/page/11106">Automation Solutions Network Meeting</a> page. </p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/10556#commentsTue, 22 May 2012 19:50:19 +0000kiorio@printing.org10556 at http://blog.printing.orgWhy present at TAGA?http://blog.printing.org/blog/10545
<p style="text-align: center;"><em><img style="vertical-align: top;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/taga/logos/taga_logo.jpg" alt="" /></em></p>
<p><em>The </em><a href="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/taga/2013/2013_TAGA_Call_For_Papers.pdf"><em>Call for Papers</em></a><em> for the </em><a href="http://www.printing.org/page/6492"><em>65<sup>th</sup> Annual Technical Conference</em></a><em> has begun, and papers for both Technical Papers and the NEW Technical Innovations Papers. The conference will be held February 3-6, 2013, in Portland, Oregon. John Seymour of the TAGA Technical Program Committee and TAGA Technical Paper contributor shares the success he has achieved through TAGA. </em></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em><iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/pSp9CEJKkS8" frameborder="0" width="425" height="350"></iframe></em></p>
<p>I work in the research group for QuadTech. Our company develops and sells control systems for printing presses. My own work has largely been the measurement and control of color online (that is, on the printing press). I have also been involved in other products that we develop, including register control and web inspection. The majority of my work has to do with advanced research for new product development. &nbsp;</p>
<p>I have been attending TAGA since 1993, and have presented eleven papers and given two tutorials for this conference. TAGA is the one conference that I try to attend every year.</p>
<p><strong>Why is this conference important to me to attend?</strong></p>
<p>It is worth my time because of the high quality of technical papers and the diversity of topics and of disciplines.</p>
<p>The TAGA technical papers committee is very diligent about screening out presentations that are largely commercials for products. Because of this, TAGA is the place to go where you can hear good, solid technical presentations without marketing hype. The technical papers committee actively solicits experts in the industry to present, so the papers are assured of having content that is both reliable and relevant.</p>
<p>TAGA has diversity in academics versus industry involvement. Currently, about 60% of the papers are from academic institutions and organizations. Roughly 20% of the papers are from industry. The remaining 20% of the papers represent collaborations between these two groups. TAGA fosters this collaboration, to the benefit of both groups.</p>
<p>The other diversity that TAGA provides is the diversity of topics. I look forward to presentations about topics that I know very little about. Often, they turn out to be topics that I <em>should</em> know something about!</p>
<p><strong>Why is the TAGA conference an important venue for me to present?</strong></p>
<p>There is a certain amount of good karma involved here. If I am receiving, I should be prepared to give. But this is hard to sell to my boss! It is much easier for me to get permission based on the fact that TAGA attracts the technical movers and shakers in this industry. Speaking at TAGA is an opportunity for my company to influence the people who are most influential in the industry.</p>
<p>Sometimes that message is simply that my company is doing new and innovative things. Sometimes the message is a bit more of a sales pitch – not specifically for our products, but for the concepts and methods behind our products. And sometimes (and this is the best part) my talk will lead to a conversation that leads to an idea that in turn leads to all sorts of good stuff.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><em>Papers for the 65<sup>th</sup> Annual Technical Conference may be submitted to </em><a href="mailto:tagapapers@printing.org"><em>tagapapers@printing.org</em></a><em> by June 15, 2012. For further discussions on attending and presenting at the 65<sup>th</sup> Annual Technical Conference, join the </em><a href="http://www.linkedin.com/groups?gid=72202&amp;trk=group-name"><em>TAGA Networking LinkedIn Group</em></a><em>. </em></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/10545#commentsGeneralConferencesFri, 18 May 2012 20:31:44 +0000kiorio@printing.org10545 at http://blog.printing.orgLanda Nanographic Printing™ Presses Making a Splash at drupa 2012http://blog.printing.org/blog/10531
<p style="text-align: left;">One of the major stories developing at <strong>drupa 2012</strong> involves the Nanographic Printing™ Presses unveiled by Landa Corporation founder, chairman, and CEO Benny Landa. These presses use water-based inks comprised of pigment particles only tens of nanometers in size. These nano-pigments are reportedly extremely light absorbent and the new process used to print with them—Nanography<strong>™</strong>—boasts high uniformity, high gloss fidelity, and a broad CMYK color gamut. And here’s the hook that’s getting everyone excited: Nanography is a digital printing process with offset speed.</p>
<p>Landa spoke about the implications of the new process:</p>
<p>&nbsp;<em>“Nanography is a new technology for applying ink to paper. In developing Landa Nanographic Printing we had to re-think and reinvent the printing press.</em></p>
<p><em>The result is digital printing with remarkable performance—from a family of presses that share stunning ergonomic design, a small footprint, and some of the most advanced user functionality available in the market."</em></p>
<p>Landa has unveiled six Nanographic presses at drupa—three sheetfed and three web presses. Also, news releases have come out in recent days reporting Landa has entered into partnerships with both Komori and Heidelberg for the development, manufacturing, and sale of presses based on Landa Nanographic Printingtechnology.</p>
<p>&nbsp;Julie Shaffer, Printing Industries of America’s vice president of digital technology, attended drupa 2012 and sat in on one of the Landa Corporation press events where the technology was demonstrated. She sent along the following video snippet to share.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/49NHddCbdnE" frameborder="0" width="425" height="350"></iframe></p>
<p style="text-align: left;">Please feel free to share your opinion with us! For more information like this, visit the <a href="http://dpc.printing.org/blog/dpc" target="_blank">Digital Printing Council News and Updates.</a></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/10531#commentsDigital Printing CouncilDigital Printing CouncilWed, 09 May 2012 13:11:50 +0000kiorio@printing.org10531 at http://blog.printing.orgRedefining the Print and Graphic Arts Industry for Tomorrow’s Printershttp://blog.printing.org/blog/10528
<p><em>This article was contributed by Larry Kroll, Vice President, Development, PGSF, whose ongoing commitment to expanding the printing industry by cultivating the next generations of printers and graphic artists through the PGSF has resulted in an incredibly successful foundation for the past 56 years.</em></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em><img style="margin: 10px;" src="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/email/StudentsWithBen.jpg" alt="" width="384" height="384" /></em></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><em>Graphic arts students pose with Ben&nbsp;before&nbsp;a pressroom tour of Printing Industries of America headquarters in Sewickley, PA.</em></span></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"></span>Twenty-eight years ago, long before our current <a href="http://www.printing.org/pgsf">Print and Graphic Scholarship Foundation (PGSF)</a> scholarship applicants were even born, one of this country's leading scientists, Dr. Egon Spengler, stated for the record that “Print is dead.” Here is the video clip you may remember from 1984 declaring, “<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D3v_ogRaTf4">Print is dead</a>.”</p>
<p>For almost three decades the “experts” have been declaring that the printing industry was either dead or dying. However, I don't believe that there is any knowledgeable person out there today who would not say that the printing industry is still alive, however, gravely injured.</p>
<p>The printing and graphic arts industry has endured major damage and critical injury. It is a victim of huge advances in productivity through the use of highly automated equipment, a revolution in competing technologies, and media coupled with the pressures to deliver a finished product “better, faster, and cheaper.”</p>
<p>Even though severely wounded, the printing and graphics arts industry will survive. It will survive for the very reasons that it has prospered and grown over the past 562 years when Johannes Gutenberg started up his first printing press in 1450<strong>.</strong></p>
<p>Since the invention of the Gutenberg press and movable type, the printing industry has faced many life-threatening challenges. I am sure that at each of these crossroads, there were those who declared that “Print is dead.”</p>
<p>Just in the last 60 years the industry has moved from hand-set type and letterpress and then from letterpress to lithography to electronic publishing and, of course, to digital printing. And with the introduction of each new advancement came the cry that “Print was dead.” It wasn't dead...it was evolving...improving and progressing to the next level of accomplishment.</p>
<p>What does all this talk of death, injury, and printing history have to do with the Print and Graphics Scholarship Foundation (PGSF) and our young graphic arts scholars? In my opinion, everything.</p>
<p>I believe that the print and graphics industry will once again rebound from adversity. I believe that once again it will find a way to redefine itself and to prosper. Not at the exceedingly high levels and accelerated rate that we experienced just five and ten years ago, but at a more conservative sustainable level—a level that makes sense for stability and long-term growth. <a href="http://whattheythink.com/news/55871-research-shows-americans-still-prefer-print-paper/?utm_source=whattheythink&amp;utm_medium=rss&amp;utm_campaign=rss">Research Shows Americans Still Prefer Print and Paper - WhatTheyThink</a>.</p>
<p>One of the primary and necessary requirements of this “redefined” print and graphics industry will be to focus on creating and encouraging educated, qualified, and enthusiastic leaders—intelligent individuals with a passion for our industry and for success and accomplishment. And <em>this</em> is precisely where and why PGSF becomes so important. PGSF provides the scholarship support for these young enthusiastic scholars—our future leaders. This is the support they need to accomplish their educational goals, which, in turn, provides the basis for a successful career in the Industry. Then, what we are counting on is that those successful print and graphics industry leaders, executives, and educators will “give-back” to PGSF and to the Industry that has supported them. Over the years, this philosophy of giving-back has been our strength and just one more reason why <strong><em>"Print is not dead!"</em></strong></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong><em>What do you envision for the future of the printing and graphic arts industries? Please share your thoughts with us here or tweet your responses to @printind&nbsp; #PGSF!</em></strong></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/10528#commentsGeneralMember ResourcesThu, 03 May 2012 17:37:36 +0000kiorio@printing.org10528 at http://blog.printing.orgA Passion for Printhttp://blog.printing.org/blog/10475
<p>Printing is not just a business for many print professionals. It is a passion. People have made printing an integral part of their lives, and we want to highlight some of these individuals as part of our <a href="http://prnt.in/ZfX">125<sup>th</sup> Anniversary</a> here at Printing Industries of America.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em>Watch as Brad performs quality control ink testing.</em><iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/vg06jNd5LZ4" frameborder="0" width="425" height="350"></iframe></p>
<p>Few people are more passionate than Brad Evans, <strong>Senior Research Technician/Lab Coordinator a</strong>t Printing Industries of America, who has spent three decades performing various testing to make better, higher-quality materials for print production. One of the ways his department serves the printing industry and our members is by analyzing issues such as ink tack for quality control. &nbsp;He is truly devoted to his trade and to assisting printing companies. Here, he shares with us some highlights of his career:</p>
<p><strong><em>Tell us about our testing facilities here at Printing Industries of America.</em></strong></p>
<p><em>We are able to do all of the Napiri and Tappi test methods to test ink and paper qualities here at Printing Industries of America.</em></p>
<p><strong><em>One of the services you provide is to perform ink and paper tests to help printing companies with various issues. How many companies do you regularly assist and how have they benefitted?</em></strong></p>
<p><em>We have two to three dozen companies that regularly use our testing services. Most companies call on us for quality control testing for raw materials such as ink and paper. Other companies order testing for conflict resolution. </em></p>
<p><em>In one case, a company had a conflict with basis weight (or the weight of paper). If there is a variance in the basis weight, it causes a difference in mailing costs. We are currently testing their unprinted paper to resolve this issue.</em></p>
<p><strong><em>How long have you been performing this kind of research?</em></strong></p>
<p><em>For 30 years I have been performing research here; first as GATF, then as Printing Industries of America.</em></p>
<p><strong><em>What were some of your most interesting case studies over the years?</em></strong></p>
<p><em>I had a case performing research on packaging for a soap company. The company had been printing with reflex blue ink. After a couple weeks on the shelves, the reflex blue ink on the wrappers would turn pink. As a result, this company now packages their product in polyboard wrap. We discovered that the lye in the soap was reacting with the reflex blue ink. The resulting change to pink occurred because reflux blue is sensitive to the alkalinity of the lye.</em></p>
<p><strong><em>It seems like you have helped quite a few companies over the years. What is your favorite part about your job here at Printing Industries of America?</em></strong></p>
<p><em>There is always something new to discover. Every day is different. After 30 years you never know what is going to come through the door. It feels great to reach solutions for companies’ problems and help them operate better—or, better yet, uncover and resolve issues before any problems occur!</em></p>
<p><em>&nbsp;</em></p>
<p>Printing Industries of America’s <a href="http://www.printing.org/ctr">Center for Technology and Research</a> provides the printing industry with a single resource for technical information, testing, and technical education.&nbsp;We are here to help you with <a href="http://www.printing.org/page/3592">services</a> such as computer-integrated manufacturing, on-site consultation and problem solving, and more. If you would like to know more about our testing facilities or have a question for Brad Evans, contact him directly at <a href="mailto:bevans@printing.org">bevans@printing.org</a>.&nbsp; Interested in attending our facility? Check out our <a href="http://www.printing.org/events">Events and Training Calendar</a> for opportunities to come learn on site!</p>
<p><strong>Have you made printing and the graphic arts an important part of your life? We want to know about your Passion for Print! Share your story here with us here and join us in celebrating 125 years of print. #125Years</strong></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/10475#commentsGeneralMiscellaneousMon, 23 Apr 2012 16:51:20 +0000kiorio@printing.org10475 at http://blog.printing.orgPrintChat Hosting Changes Hands This Week!http://blog.printing.org/blog/10460
<p>Energetic conversations, brief comments, some confusion, and plenty of ideas are exchanged in networking groups and office cooler conversations daily. Virtual gatherings with Twitter chats create the same experience, and, in some ways, are even better. You stay in your office, read the comments, and meet people with passion for the industry who reside all over the country. Meet “PrintChat,” an industry Twitter Chat.</p>
<p>This week marked a milestone—the original host, Quad/Graphics, passed the hosting baton to PrintMediaCentr (<a href="http://www.printmediacentr.com/">www.printmediacentr.com</a>). For over a year, Quad/Graphics has hosted PrintChat on Wednesdays and has done a terrific job introducing many of us to the value and fun of a TwitterChat.&nbsp; Topics change, participation fluctuates, people who have never met make acquaintances and chat. The experience can be odd the first few times. I just watched and became amazed that out of 140 character comments, an actual conversation emerges where opinions are expressed and ideas exchanged. Better yet, contacts for further connections are initiated. Eventually, I entered the conversations with a few thoughts now and then. Some people become regulars on the chats. Some people are observers, but from it all, ideas are exchanged.</p>
<p>Can actual substance and a coherent conversation occur? Oddly, yes. Do non-business comments enter into the session? Yes, just like real life. Does it get confusing at times? Yes, just like a group discussing anywhere—one person is answering a question while a new topic starts up with the group. But with a little patience—and a sense of humor—out of the banter opinions are expressed and ideas emerge.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Deborah Corn is the person behind the PrintMediaCentr Logo. Deborah debuted as host this week after serving as a guest host several times. There were several questions related to sales calls, researching customers, getting in the door, cold calls, and other sales-oriented discussions. I jumped in where I could and picked up tips and asides from the others in the group.</p>
<p>So, if you want to experience a real-time conversation, join the PrintChat on Wednesday at 4PM Eastern time (new time). Look for the hashtag #PrintChat on Twitter. You may choose to listen, introduce yourself, and join the passionate, fun crowd.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
<p>A big thanks to Quad/Graphics for their year+ of hosting. Best wishes to PrintMediaCentr as they pick up the baton and run with PrintChat. Maybe the next time we meet, it will be through PrintChat.&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/10460#commentsSocial Media Field GuideDigital Printing CouncilThu, 19 Apr 2012 18:48:40 +0000mgarnett@printing.org10460 at http://blog.printing.orgAutomation is the way to “Profitization” http://blog.printing.org/blog/10459
<p>Join us for the Automation Solutions Network meeting hosted by the Japs-Olson Company on <strong><em>September 18-19, 2012, in St. Louis Park, Minnesota</em></strong>. You will have the opportunity to hear from Japs-Olson representatives, along with other industry leaders, about how to <strong><em>increase your profitability through automation</em></strong>. Specializing in direct mail and commercial printing, Japs-Olson Company is continually recognized as a leader in the printing industry.</p>
<ul>
<li>Tour this state-of-the-art plant and learn about the history that has helped shape this 512,000 square foot facility. Hear senior management expound upon the benefits of using automation as one strategy to maintain a leading competitive position.</li>
<li>Learn how to continuously improve workflow while reducing touch points and improving your business model.<br /><br /></li>
<li>Open Discussion Sessions<br /><em>Network with print leaders and peers as they discuss best practices to apply to your business. We invited the major suppliers to speak about Japs-Olson’s workflow solutions and integration techniques.</em><br /><br /></li>
<li>Uncover the automation challenges and solutions to integrating inkjet and offset printing processes. <br /><br /></li>
</ul>
<p>&nbsp;The <a href="http://www.printing.org/automation">Automation Solutions Network</a> has established itself as the premiere event to exchange ideas and solutions for automated workflows. It focuses on the development and practical implementation of workflow automation and cross-vendor integration implementations. The group welcomes a wide range of users employing automated technology as well as suppliers of those systems. The steering committee of the Automation Solutions Network is made up entirely of printers who have either implemented systems or are in the process of doing so.</p>
<p><br />If you have question about improving your workflow or for more information about the meeting, visit the <a href="http://www.printing.org/2012japsolsonmeeting">Japs-Olson meeting page</a> or contact Automation at 800-910-4283 or <a href="mailto:automation@printing.org">automation@printing.org</a>. You don’t want to miss this chance to tour the integrated Japs-Olson facility and learn how to increase profitability through workflow automation.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>We want to know: <em>When you are looking at new software and equipment, what is the number one factor that goes in to your decision-making process?</em></strong></p>
<ul>
<li><em>ROI calculations and strategy</em></li>
<li><em>Stand alone performance of the software or equipment</em></li>
<li><em>Integrating the software or equipment into your existing processes</em></li>
</ul>
<p>&nbsp;Tell us, and Printing Industries of America can provide the solutions needed to achieve automation.</p>
<p>See our links for more information:</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.printing.org/automation">The Automation Solutions Network</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.printing.org/2012japsolsonmeeting">Japs-Olson Company meeting page</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.linkedin.com/groups?mostPopular=&amp;gid=1337107" target="_blank">Automated Solutions Network LinkedIn Page</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.printing.org/page/3585">Become a Member of the Automated Solutions Network</a></li>
</ul>http://blog.printing.org/blog/10459#commentsGeneralMember ResourcesWed, 18 Apr 2012 21:22:03 +0000kiorio@printing.org10459 at http://blog.printing.orgPrint Is Alive on Pinterest! http://blog.printing.org/blog/10440
<p>Print is all around us: it’s in the books and magazines we read, on the packages on our shelves, on the fabric of our clothing. Some of the most visually stunning printing have even won <a href="http://prnt.in/ZQN">Premier Print Awards</a>. Print is alive, and it is to this idea that we dedicate our new social site. If you have not joined Printing Industries of America on <a href="http://pinterest.com/printind/">Pinterest</a> yet, we would love to share with you our “Gallery of Print.” We are showcasing everything that is important to us—and important to you.</p>
<p><strong>What Is Pinterest?</strong></p>
<p>Some of you may be asking, “What is Pinterest?” It is, basically, a “virtual board” that lets you organize and share interesting photos that you find online. Voted one of <em>TIME Magazine’s</em> “50 Best Websites of 2011,” the new social media craze allows you to socialize with other pinners because you can browse their boards and “re-pin,”” like,” or “comment” on their photos. &nbsp;Just visit <a href="http://pinterest.com/">Pinterest.com</a> to start an account, start building your boards, and following others.</p>
<p><strong>Is It Time for You to Get Involved?</strong></p>
<p>We asked our resident expert, Julie Shaffer, Vice President, Digital Technologies at Printing Industries of America and head of the Digital Printing Council, which will also host the <a href="http://www.integratedprintforum.org/">2012 Integrated Print Forum</a> this October, for some tips on how to utilize Pinterest to fit into your marketing mix by highlighting your printing products and services:</p>
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<p style="text-align: left;"><em>“You might think that Pinterest has more value for individuals than businesses. After all, while stats show that Pinterest is growing rapidly. With over 21 million unique visits, it is heavily skewed toward females (over 80% of users) interested in crafts, hobbies, interior design, and fashion. </em></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><em>Why, then, would a printing company want to have a presence there? Because, &nbsp;unlike most other widely-used social media platforms, Pinterest provides a way to present a highly organized grouping of visual elements—so a company can show off specific products around a vertical market (like the ones already there, including retail and hobbies), a product type (calendars, stickers, books), or a holiday, event, or specific topic.</em></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><em>Pinterest has become a top driver to many well-known websites, including those for Martha Stewart, Cooking Light, and Country Living. Note that all of those aforementioned brands have a magazine, too, so odds are it’s a potential print driver for them as well! Interactive marketing solution provider Strongmail considers Pinterest an effective channel that can be integrated into existing direct mail marketing initiatives. (The company recently announced the </em><a href="http://www.strongmail.com/company/news-and-events/press-releases/2012/strongmail-adds-pinterest-sharing-to-influencer-word-of-mouth-customer-acquisition-solution"><em>integration of Pinterest sharing</em></a><em> with its word-of-mouth customer acquisition product Strongmail Influencer.) &nbsp;Pinterest offers a </em><a href="https://pinterest.com/pinterestbiz/"><em>business library</em></a><em> on the site that provides case studies, statistics, vertical markets, tutorials, and many other valuable materials to help businesses leverage the platform. Take a look and get started pinning!”</em></p>
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<p>Take Julie’s advice and look into Pinterest for your business, or, feel free to just have fun with a personal page! Take some more design inspiration from some of the top-followed brand boards such as <a href="http://pinterest.com/wholefoods/">Whole Foods</a> and <a href="http://pinterest.com/bhg/">Better Homes and Gardens</a>. Either way, we invite you to follow Printing Industries of America on Pinterest to share with the world all of the beauty, creativity, and craftsmanship that make up print. Follow us, and we will follow you back. Post your site here for others and start growing your business with Pintrest!</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/10440#commentsGeneralSocial MediaWed, 11 Apr 2012 13:00:53 +0000kiorio@printing.org10440 at http://blog.printing.orgFor Direct Mail and USPS Regulations, Direct Mail Pal 2012 Delivers! http://blog.printing.org/blog/10423
<p>Once again, Printing Industries of America is featuring another great title from Printing Industries Press as our Book of the Month for April/May 2012. <a href="http://www.printing.org/node/10314"><strong><em>Direct Mail Pal 2012: A Direct Mail Production Handbook</em></strong></a> covers all of the changes in postal rules, rates, options, and practices in order to help you navigate through a changing environment and effectively plan and operate while maximizing your profitability.</p>
<p>If you are a direct mail production professional or printer expanding into direct mail, novice or experienced, this handbook is for you. Direct mail personalization, according to recent data, rose 46 percent from 2010 to 2011. With the proper knowledge and planning this book provides, &nbsp;you can take advantage of this growing trend.</p>
<p>This publication is highly recommended by our staff here at Printing Industries of America for its current information and comprehensive scope. Amy Woodall, director of Technical Information, Printing Industries Press, shared some insights about <a href="http://www.printing.org/node/10314"><strong><em>Direct Mail Pal 2012</em></strong></a>. Ms. Woodall served as editor and project manager on this publication and worked closely with the book’s authors, T. &nbsp;J. Tedesco and Charley Howard. Here, she shares her insights with us about the Book of the Month:</p>
<p><strong><em>Why did you choose Direct Mail Pal 2012 as the Book of the Month for April/May 2012?</em></strong></p>
<p><em>This is one of our newest titles from Printing Industries Press and a long-time best seller. The first edition was released ten years ago and has been on the top ten list of our publications since its release. An updated version was long overdue. This book was chosen as the book of the month because I wanted to be sure people knew about the wealth of information about direct mail available in this update.</em></p>
<p><strong><em>The authors mentioned in your </em></strong><a href="http://www.printing.org/page/10418"><strong><em>interview</em></strong></a><strong><em> with them that this book helps printers with new rates and regulations set by the USPS. In what ways does the book address these new concerns?</em></strong></p>
<p><em>The actual rate charts are included and broken down by per piece rates, per pound rates, automation, compatibility, and more. The USPS’s new rules and specs can be difficult to navigate, and the book is an easy reference tool. It also goes into a lot of detail about why changes went into effect and what you as a mailing professional can do to take advantage of them—and what to expect in the future.</em></p>
<p><strong><em>What are some other important topics explored in the book?</em></strong></p>
<p><em>A lot of attention is given to design and data concerns and other issues you should think about before preparing a mailing. There is also a new barcode called the Intelligent Mail barcode that encodes automation, tracking, and other mailstream information about the piece, such as routing codes, serial numbers, and more within the barcode itself. The book also provides invaluable insight about how to take advantage of discounts available for mailers through work sharing, postal-friendly layouts, and other methods.</em></p>
<p><strong><em>What can you tell us about the overall layout of this book regarding how it addresses the issues and provides solutions?</em></strong></p>
<p><em>It is divided into four sections plus appendix materials so that you can easily locate exactly what you are interested in: preproduction, production, postproduction, or planning. You can simply go directly to that section for the information you need. The chapters are concise and focused on specific topics so you get just the knowledge you need. Forms and checklists in the appendices give practical tools to use in the workplace.</em></p>
<p><strong><em>How does the book compare to similar titles?</em></strong></p>
<p><em>This book is really one-of-a-kind as far as being geared toward printers looking to expand their mailing services; it is truly geared toward our industry specifically. Also, all of the case studies in the book are from actual printers’ experiences, so you can learn from the successes and failures of others like you.</em></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>This handbook will make it easier to navigate the complex waters of direct mail. It provides a comprehensive look at the current mailing environment, including much-needed information on the new regulations set by the USPS, in a well-organized format. Full of direct mail tips and procedures, <a href="http://www.printing.org/node/10314"><strong><em>Direct Mail Pal 2012</em></strong></a> is an essential if you are even considering venturing into the direct mail business.</p>
<p>Ordering is available <a href="http://www.printing.org/store">online</a> , by phone at <strong>800-910-4283 Ext. 770</strong> (U.S.) or <strong>412-259-1770</strong> (outside U.S.), by fax at <strong>412-741-2311</strong>, or by mail to <em>Printing Industries of America, Attn: Member Central, 200 Deer Run Road, Sewickley, PA 15143. Direct Mail Pal 2012 </em>sells for only $20.00 ($30.00 non-member). Find all of our great publications from <a href="http://www.printing.org/store">Printing Industries Press Online Store</a>.</p>
<p>If you would like more information on mailing, check out this <a href="http://www.printing.org/page/10338">Mailing Study information</a> from Printing Industries of America’s Center for Technology and Research, which will soon be published in a report and TAGA paper. Also, find out about the <a href="http://www.printing.org/news/10364">Proposed 2% Discount from the USPS for Summer 2012</a>.</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/10423#commentsGeneralPublicationsTue, 03 Apr 2012 11:57:41 +0000kiorio@printing.org10423 at http://blog.printing.orgWatch for Cash Mobs in a City Near You!http://blog.printing.org/blog/10422
<p>Cash mobs are the latest trend in “mobbing” on social media.&nbsp; A cash mob is a positive experience according to people who have been “mobbed.”&nbsp; In a cash mob the purpose is to support local small businesses by showing up and spending at least $20; meet three new people; and have fun.&nbsp; So far cities around the world have been involved. &nbsp;Andrew Samtoy, an attorney, kicked off cash mobs after being exposed to the summer riots in Britain last year where mobs were vandalizing stores and communicating the plan through social media. He wanted to try something positive that would introduce people to a small businesses with limited marketing reach.&nbsp; &nbsp;There is a blog <a href="http://prnt.in/Zdg">http://prnt.in/Zdg</a>&nbsp;&nbsp; about the cash mobs as well as many news reports.&nbsp; See <a href="http://prnt.in/ZdM">http://prnt.in/ZdM</a>&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;So far, the owners, who are notified and must agree, are pleased with the results. &nbsp;Cleveland Ohio even started an International Cash Mob Day <a href="http://prnt.in/ZdQ">http://prnt.in/ZdQ</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp;One owner reported sales of $9K in three hours. Many mobbers spend well over the $20.&nbsp; This is an example of social media for good.&nbsp; &nbsp;This positive movement&nbsp; of cash mobbing sounds good on the surface with all the ground rules in place. I like the idea of the goal to “Meet People, Spend and Have Fun.”&nbsp; Time will tell if cash mobs are a&nbsp;fad, a trend, or a “flash in the pan.”&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/10422#commentsSocial Media Field GuideMon, 02 Apr 2012 15:28:36 +0000mgarnett@printing.org10422 at http://blog.printing.org3D Printing Making Headlineshttp://blog.printing.org/blog/10419
<p>Recent articles in <a href="http://www.usatoday.com/tech/news/story/2012-02-20/3-d-printing/53179186/1"><em>USA Today</em></a> and <a href="http://www.forbes.com/sites/gcaptain/2012/03/06/will-3d-printing-change-the-world/"><em>Forbes</em></a> have highlighted the growing 3D printing market. 3D printing, which has roots in industrial prototyping, is the “printing” of objects by devices that function somewhat similar to inkjet printers or plotters. Devices that create 3D models from Computer Aided Drafting (CAD) programs have existed since at least the 1990’s. Basically, 3D printers use plastic or other materials to create models layer by layer. If you’ve never seen one of these devices in action, do yourself a favor and search YouTube for videos of 3D printers.</p>
<p>Traditionally, the major markets for these printed models (or prototypes) have been engineering, automotive, and architectural businesses. Recently, though, this process has been used in applications ranging from toy models to jewelry and even prosthetics. The research firm Wohlers Associates estimates sales for all 3D printing products and services worldwide at $1.66 billion in 2012 and approaching $3.1 billion by 2016.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.stratasys.com/">Stratasys</a>, a Minneapolis company that developed some of the first 3D printers, partnered a couple of years ago with Hewlet Packard to create the <a href="http://www8.hp.com/uk/en/products/3d-printers/index.html">HP Designjet 3D printer series</a>. The cost of the device is reported to be in a range equivalent to about $17,500. Stratasys also offers 3D machines under their <a href="http://www.dimensionprinting.com/">Dimension</a> and <a href="http://www.uprint3dprinting.com/">uPrint</a> lines. One more major vendor, the <a href="http://www.zcorp.com/en/home.aspx">Z Corporation</a>, which has a product line that includes a number of 3D printers, 3D scanners, and 3D software, was recently acquired by <a href="http://www.3dsystems.com/">3D Systems</a>.</p>
<p>Could your company expand to offer 3D printing services? It seems that many of the skill sets of digital press operators would translate well to 3D printing. There are, of course, companies that specialize in this, and checking them out might be worthwhile. A San Francisco-based company named <a href="http://www.moddler.com/">Moddler</a> prints 3D models, and, as you might guess from their Bay-area locale, Moddler’s primary market is the animation and special effects industry. <a href="http://www.shapeways.com/">Shapeways</a> offers online creation and ordering of personalized products that are produced with a 3D printer. Their site has community/social media feel and their business model really is 3D web-to-print. <a href="http://www.myrobotnation.com/">My Robot Nation</a> is a startup founded by veterans of the gaming industry. The site allows users to create and personalize full-color 3D models of robots.</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/10419#commentsDigital Printing CouncilDigital PrintFri, 30 Mar 2012 18:06:47 +0000sshea@printing.org10419 at http://blog.printing.orgDo You Have Social Media Kred?http://blog.printing.org/blog/10417
<p>So you have a Linkedin account, a Facebook Page and a Twitter account. Maybe you check in to your gym or the place you have lunch on Foursquare, post videos on YouTube and try your best to figure out how to fit Google Plus into the mix. In short, you’re doing what people like me have been urging you to do —&nbsp;you’re engaged in social media conversation. Congratulations. Now, what do you know about your social standing? Do you have Kred? Do you have Klout?</p>
<p>Just as a bank uses your credit score to measure your financial soundness, and Google Analytics measures your website’s reach, services <a href="http://www.klout.com/">Klout.com</a> and <a href="http://www.kred.com/">Kred.com</a> measure your social media<em> influence</em>. If you haven’t used either of these services, it’s worth the time to head over to each site and check it out. But be warned, once you sign up and see your scores odds are human nature will kick in and you will become obsessed with improving them.</p>
<p>Klout measures, as the language-distorting name implies, your social “clout.” When you sign up, you authorized the service to connect to at least one of your social accounts (Twitter, Facebook and Google Plus) and linking to more will yield a more accurate measure of your influence across the entire social web. Klout can also connect to Linkedin, YouTube, Foursquare, Instagram, WordPress, Blogger, Tumblr, Last.fm and Flicker with half a dozen more on the way. Klout uses these connections to come up with your Klout Score, reported as a number on a scale of one to 100. The average score is in the 20s and as one’s score moves up the scale, it’s much more difficult to increase one’s Klout Score. Klout defines influenced as “the ability to drive action” and looks at interaction through social networks over a rolling 90-day period. Engagement is key, and Klout will rank a person with fewer connections but more engagement (via Retweets, Mentions, new Follows, Likes, Wall Posts) higher than one with many connections but little interaction. Klout also lets you compare your score, side by side, with anyone else using the service. Depending upon whom you choose, this can be an uplifting or depressing activity.</p>
<p>How does Klout make money? By hitting up vendors, of course. Brands pay Klout to offer <a href="mailto:http://klout.com/corp/perks">Klout Perks</a> to Klout users in an effort to get these “influencers” to talk nicely about specific products. As a Klout user, I’m told there are no strings attached to this Klout swag and just like the material world, the people with the most Klout, get the biggest Perks — we’re told this can be a great gift like airline tickets or computer gear. Personally, all I’ve gotten so far are some free business cards from <a href="http://us.moo.com/products/business-cards.html">Moo</a>, a book and early access to <a href="mailto:https://bottlenose.com/signup%3Ffrom=klout">Bottlenose</a>. If I want to start talking about beauty products, I can get some swag in that category too. Both Klout and Kred designate a person’s influence within certain categories. Mine include printing (surprise) advertising, technology and smartphones. I’ve no idea why I’m considered a smartphone influencer—must be all that talk about QR codes and apps.</p>
<p>Kred measures individual’s influence in two parts: Influence on a scale of one to 1000 and Outreach Level, on a scale of one to 12. &nbsp;With Kred, you get points based on your level of engagement, so retweets, replies and mentions add up, and, unlike the more elusive <a title="Klout Score" href="http://klout.com/corp/kscore">Klout Score</a>, Kred shows how each and every point is earned through the Activity Statement. Did you get a mention from another Twitter account? You’ve earned 10 points. Someone retweeted one of your tweets? That will earn you another 10 points. Reviewing your Kred activity can be a real motivator to interact more with others, and on the face of it, that would be the goal of the service.</p>
<p>Of course, Kred exists to make money too. The service was launched in September 2011 by social analytics company <a href="http://www.peoplebrowsr.com/">PeopleBrowsr</a>, and is integrated into that company’s social-analytics platform, Playground. &nbsp;Because of this analytics backbone, Kred is poised to offer business clients a whole lot of data based on Kred user data. <a href="http://www.peoplebrowsr.com/#kred">Kred Playground</a> offers insights to business users such as influencer discovery, custom filtering, and community search and post effect. Kred primarily measures Twitter engagement, so looks at a less broad spectrum of user engagement, but is staged to offer brands more well-developed analytics of the engagement it does measure.</p>
<p>As of this writing my Kred score is 597 out of 1000 (respectable) and 4 out of 12 (a bit less so.) The 12 measures outreach and it’s only four because I’m apparently not engaged in enough direct interaction with others on Twitter. My Klout score is 46, also respectable, but here’s the problem; last month it was 49. Yikes, what happened? There’s nothing worse than a chart showing a downhill slant. I’m determined to get these score up, up, up. So don’t be surprised if you see my Twitter stream full of @mentions, retweets and hash tags. Got to keep up with the social Joneses!</p>
<p><a title="Kredscore by DPCadmin, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/78118845@N05/7027394993/"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7094/7027394993_79b0c22e8e.jpg" alt="Kredscore" width="500" height="178" /></a></p>
<p>Let’s talk on Twitter! I’m @juliesdpc</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/10417#commentsDigital Printing CouncilSocial MediaThu, 29 Mar 2012 19:08:12 +0000jshaffer@printing.org10417 at http://blog.printing.orgDo You Have Social Media Kred?http://blog.printing.org/blog/10416
<p>So you have a Linkedin account, a Facebook Page and a Twitter account. Maybe you check in to your gym or the place you have lunch on Foursquare, post videos on YouTube and try your best to figure out how to fit Google Plus into the mix. In short, you’re doing what people like me have been urging you to do —&nbsp;you’re engaged in social media conversation. Congratulations. Now, what do you know about your social standing? Do you have Kred? Do you have Klout?</p>
<p>Just as a bank uses your credit score to measure your financial soundness, and Google Analytics measures your website’s reach, services <a href="http://www.klout.com/">Klout.com</a> and <a href="http://www.kred.com/">Kred.com</a> measure your social media<em> influence</em>. If you haven’t used either of these services, it’s worth the time to head over to each site and check it out. But be warned, once you sign up and see your scores odds are human nature will kick in and you will become obsessed with improving them.</p>
<p>Klout measures, as the language-distorting name implies, your social “clout.” When you sign up, you authorized the service to connect to at least one of your social accounts (Twitter, Facebook and Google Plus) and linking to more will yield a more accurate measure of your influence across the entire social web. Klout can also connect to Linkedin, YouTube, Foursquare, Instagram, WordPress, Blogger, Tumblr, Last.fm and Flicker with half a dozen more on the way. Klout uses these connections to come up with your Klout Score, reported as a number on a scale of one to 100. The average score is in the 20s and as one’s score moves up the scale, it’s much more difficult to increase one’s Klout Score. Klout defines influenced as “the ability to drive action” and looks at interaction through social networks over a rolling 90-day period. Engagement is key, and Klout will rank a person with fewer connections but more engagement (via Retweets, Mentions, new Follows, Likes, Wall Posts) higher than one with many connections but little interaction. Klout also lets you compare your score, side by side, with anyone else using the service. Depending upon whom you choose, this can be an uplifting or depressing activity.</p>
<p>How does Klout make money? By hitting up vendors, of course. Brands pay Klout to offer <a href="mailto:http://klout.com/corp/perks">Klout Perks</a> to Klout users in an effort to get these “influencers” to talk nicely about specific products. As a Klout user, I’m told there are no strings attached to this Klout swag and just like the material world, the people with the most Klout, get the biggest Perks — we’re told this can be a great gift like airline tickets or computer gear. Personally, all I’ve gotten so far are some free business cards from <a href="http://us.moo.com/products/business-cards.html">Moo</a>, a book and early access to <a href="mailto:https://bottlenose.com/signup%3Ffrom=klout">Bottlenose</a>. If I want to start talking about beauty products, I can get some swag in that category too. Both Klout and Kred designate a person’s influence within certain categories. Mine include printing (surprise) advertising, technology and smartphones. I’ve no idea why I’m considered a smartphone influencer—must be all that talk about QR codes and apps.</p>
<p>Kred measures individual’s influence in two parts: Influence on a scale of one to 1000 and Outreach Level, on a scale of one to 12. &nbsp;With Kred, you get points based on your level of engagement, so retweets, replies and mentions add up, and, unlike the more elusive <a title="Klout Score" href="http://klout.com/corp/kscore">Klout Score</a>, Kred shows how each and every point is earned through the Activity Statement. Did you get a mention from another Twitter account? You’ve earned 10 points. Someone retweeted one of your tweets? That will earn you another 10 points. Reviewing your Kred activity can be a real motivator to interact more with others, and on the face of it, that would be the goal of the service.</p>
<p>Of course, Kred exists to make money too. The service was launched in September 2011 by social analytics company <a href="http://www.peoplebrowsr.com/">PeopleBrowsr</a>, and is integrated into that company’s social-analytics platform, Playground. &nbsp;Because of this analytics backbone, Kred is poised to offer business clients a whole lot of data based on Kred user data. <a href="http://www.peoplebrowsr.com/#kred">Kred Playground</a> offers insights to business users such as influencer discovery, custom filtering, and community search and post effect. Kred primarily measures Twitter engagement, so looks at a less broad spectrum of user engagement, but is staged to offer brands more well-developed analytics of the engagement it does measure.</p>
<p>As of this writing my Kred score is 597 out of 1000 (respectable) and 4 out of 12 (a bit less so.) The 12 measures outreach and it’s only four because I’m apparently not engaged in enough direct interaction with others on Twitter. My Klout score is 46, also respectable, but here’s the problem; last month it was 49. Yikes, what happened? There’s nothing worse than a chart showing a downhill slant. I’m determined to get these score up, up, up. So don’t be surprised if you see my Twitter stream full of @mentions, retweets and hash tags. Got to keep up with the social Joneses!</p>
<p><a title="Kredscore by DPCadmin, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/78118845@N05/7027394993/"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7094/7027394993_79b0c22e8e.jpg" alt="Kredscore" width="500" height="178" /></a></p>
<p>Let’s talk on Twitter! I’m @juliesdpc</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/10416#commentsThu, 29 Mar 2012 19:00:24 +0000jshaffer@printing.org10416 at http://blog.printing.orgDo You Have Social Media Kred?http://blog.printing.org/blog/10415
<p>So you have a Linkedin account, a Facebook Page and a Twitter account. Maybe you check in to your gym or the place you have lunch on Foursquare, post videos on YouTube and try your best to figure out how to fit Google Plus into the mix. In short, you’re doing what people like me have been urging you to do —&nbsp;you’re engaged in social media conversation. Congratulations. Now, what do you know about your social standing? Do you have Kred? Do you have Klout?</p>
<p>Just as a bank uses your credit score to measure your financial soundness, and Google Analytics measures your website’s reach, services <a title="Klout" href="http://www.klout.com/">Klout.com</a> and <a title="Kred" href="http://www.kred.com/">Kred.com</a> measure your social media<em> influence</em>. If you haven’t used either of these services, it’s worth the time to head over to each site and check it out. But be warned, once you sign up and see your scores odds are human nature will kick in and you will become obsessed with improving them.</p>
<p>Klout measures, as the language-distorting name implies, your social “clout.” When you sign up, you authorized the service to connect to at least one of your social accounts (Twitter, Facebook and Google Plus) and linking to more will yield a more accurate measure of your influence across the entire social web. Klout can also connect to Linkedin, YouTube, Foursquare, Instagram, WordPress, Blogger, Tumblr, Last.fm and Flicker with half a dozen more on the way. Klout uses these connections to come up with your <a title="Klout Score" href="http://klout.com/corp/kscore">Klout Score</a>, reported as a number on a scale of one to 100. The average score is in the 20s and as one’s score moves up the scale, it’s much more difficult to increase one’s Klout Score. Klout defines influenced as “the ability to drive action” and looks at interaction through social networks over a rolling 90-day period. Engagement is key, and Klout will rank a person with fewer connections but more engagement (via Retweets, Mentions, new Follows, Likes, Wall Posts) higher than one with many connections but little interaction. Klout also lets you compare your score, side by side, with anyone else using the service. Depending upon whom you choose, this can be an uplifting or depressing activity.</p>
<p>How does Klout make money? By hitting up vendors, of course. Brands pay Klout to offer <a title="Perks" href="http://klout.com/corp/perks">Klout Perks</a> to Klout users in an effort to get these “influencers” to talk nicely about specific products. As a Klout user, I’m told there are no strings attached to this Klout swag and just like the material world, the people with the most Klout, get the biggest Perks — we’re told this can be a great gift like airline tickets or computer gear. Personally, all I’ve gotten so far are some free business cards from <a title="Moo" href="http://us.moo.com/products/business-cards.html">Moo</a>, a book and early access to <a title="Bottlenose" href="https://bottlenose.com/signup%3Ffrom=klout">Bottlenose</a>. If I want to start talking about beauty products, I can get some swag in that category too. Both Klout and Kred designate a person’s influence within certain categories. Mine include printing (surprise) advertising, technology and smartphones. I’ve no idea why I’m considered a smartphone influencer—must be all that talk about QR codes and apps.</p>
<p>Kred measures individual’s influence in two parts: Influence on a scale of one to 1000 and Outreach Level, on a scale of one to 12. With Kred, you get points based on your level of engagement, so retweets, replies and mentions add up, and, unlike the more elusive Klout Score, Kred shows how each and every point is earned through the Activity Statement. Did you get a mention from another Twitter account? You’ve earned 10 points. Someone retweeted one of your tweets? That will earn you another 10 points. Reviewing your Kred activity can be a real motivator to interact more with others, and on the face of it, that would be the goal of the service.</p>
<p>Of course, Kred exists to make money too. The service was launched in September 2011 by social analytics company <a title="Peoplebrowsr" href="http://www.peoplebrowsr.com/">PeopleBrowsr</a>, and is integrated into that company’s social-analytics platform, Playground. &nbsp;Because of this analytics backbone, Kred is poised to offer business clients a whole lot of data based on Kred user data. <a title="Playground" href="http://www.peoplebrowsr.com/#kred">Kred Playground</a> offers insights to business users such as influencer discovery, custom filtering, and community search and post effect. Kred primarily measures Twitter engagement, so looks at a less broad spectrum of user engagement, but is staged to offer brands more well-developed analytics of the engagement it does measure.</p>
<p>As of this writing my Kred score is 597 out of 1000 (respectable) and 4 out of 12 (a bit less so.) The 12 measures outreach and it’s only four because I’m apparently not engaged in enough direct interaction with others on Twitter. My Klout score is 46, also respectable, but here’s the problem; last month it was 49. Yikes, what happened? There’s nothing worse than a chart showing a downhill slant. I’m determined to get these score up, up, up. So don’t be surprised if you see my Twitter stream full of @mentions, retweets and hash tags. Got to keep up with the social Joneses!</p>
<p><a title="Kredscore by DPCadmin, on Flickr" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/78118845@N05/7027394993/"><img src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7094/7027394993_79b0c22e8e.jpg" alt="Kredscore" width="500" height="178" /></a></p>
<p>Want to influence each other on Twitter? I’m <a title="Julie Twitter" href="https://twitter.com/#!/juliesdpc">@juliesdpc</a></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/10415#commentsThu, 29 Mar 2012 18:41:57 +0000jshaffer@printing.org10415 at http://blog.printing.orgOSHA Revises Hazard Communication Standardshttp://blog.printing.org/blog/10414
<p><em>The following information is contributed by Rick Hartwig and the <a class="active" href="http://www.printing.org/page/4348" target="_blank">Environmental, Health, and Safety Affairs </a>Department of Printing Industries of America.</em></p>
<p>Get ready for changes to your Hazard Communication program! After years of effort, theOccupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) revised its Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) to align with the United Nations' Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS). The revision was made to provide for consistency and to allow employees to better understand hazards, which will result in improved compliance, easier program management, and fewer injuries and illnesses. &nbsp;</p>
<p>The changes outlined under the new standard will be phased in over time and will be fully in effect by <em>June 1, 2016</em>. This rule includes three major changes to the current standards:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Hazard classification</strong>. The definitions of “hazard” have been changed to provide specific criteria for classifications of health and physical hazards, as well as the classification of mixtures. The chemical manufacturer and importer are still responsible for hazard classification.</li>
<li><strong>Labels for chemical containers</strong>. Chemical manufacturers and importers will be required to provide a label that includes a signal word, pictogram, and hazard statement for each hazard class and category. Precautionary statements must also be provided.</li>
<li><strong>Safety data sheets</strong>. These documents will eventually replace the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) and will now have a uniform and specified 16-section format. The compliance requirements for the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) will essentially be the same as was required in the current standard.</li>
</ul>
<p>As a result of the changes to labeling and SDS’s, OSHA will require modified employee training to be provided. The revised rule requires that all applicable workers be trained on the new label elements and SDS format by December 1, 2013 in order to be prepared once the new information is released into the market. Also, in the event any new physical or health hazards are identified, additional employee training on the new information must be completed by June 1, 2016. This modified training is in addition to the current standard’s training requirements.</p>
<p>The printing industry will primarily be affected by the labeling and Safety Data Sheet changes to the Hazard Communication Standard, as well as the training requirements that accompany these changes. OSHA will require employers who use an in-plant labeling system to update their labeling program, so companies should begin evaluating the labeling system used for in-plant containers during the transition period.</p>
<p>Although the changes do not directly affect the written program requirements of Hazard Communication Standard, OSHA will require employers to update, as necessary, any portion of their programs that would reflect changes such as terminology, definitions, training, or any change in policies as a result of the new revision.</p>
<p>To prepare companies for the implementation of the new Hazard Communication standard OSHA has provided an online resource(<a href="http://www.osha.gov/dsg/hazcom/index.html">http://www.osha.gov/dsg/hazcom/index.html</a>) that contains the text of the final rule, fact sheets, frequently asked questions, and additional information about the new rule. Further information and guidance will be made available after a review is performed by the Environmental, Health, and Safety Affairs team at Printing Industries of America.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>For questions or more information regarding Environmental, Health, and Safety, contact Rick Hartwig, Manager, Environmental Health and Safety Affairs, Printing Industries of America, at <a href="mailto:rhartwig@printing.org">rhartwig@printing.org</a>.</p>
<p>Also, join Printing Industries of America Networking Group on <a class="active" href="http://www.linkedin.com/company/205780" target="_blank">LinkedIn</a>&nbsp;to start your own discussion with others in your industry.</p><div class="field field-type-text field-field-blog-optin">
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http://blog.printing.org/blog/10414#commentsGeneralGreen and SustainabilityThu, 29 Mar 2012 15:25:21 +0000kiorio@printing.org10414 at http://blog.printing.org“ROI Is king” for Printers When it Comes to Gaining and Retaining Customershttp://blog.printing.org/blog/10410
<p>As you read through Printing Industries of America’s <em>2012 Forecast Part 1: Trends and Tactics</em>, it becomes evident that there are many new challenges facing printers, but also, many new tactics to overcoming them. One of these challenges is the effects of the rise of Internet and e-media. The real culprit, however, is that today’s consumers are more demanding than ever. In an age where the most sought after goods and services are just a click away, business must redirect their focus to being more than just printers. Today, printers need to take effective steps to improve their customers’ ROI and transition to being total service providers.</p>
<p>According to Printing Industries of America’s <a href="http://www.printing.org/node/10213"><strong><em>2012 Forecast Part 1: Trends and Tactics</em></strong></a><em>, </em>contributor Jack Miller, Principle Consultant for Market-Intel, LLC, printers are now in business to serve the customer.&nbsp; They must evolve beyond the idea that they are a company that “puts ink on paper” and focus on “helping their customers improve their ROI on their marketing communications.”&nbsp;</p>
<p>For a successful customer-centered business, follow these top practices:</p>
<ul>
<li>Evolve into a “marketing services provider” or “solutions partner”</li>
<li>Longer sales cycle, more loyalty</li>
<li>Opportunity for cross selling</li>
<li>Content delivery vs. multiple channels</li>
<li>Focus on consumer retention more than acquisition</li>
<li>Growth with existing customers: offer a broader range of services</li>
<li>Balance—not putting too many eggs in one basket</li>
<li>Integrate social media and search engine marketing into the mix</li>
</ul>
<p>Print as ink on paper, Miller predicts, will continue to play an important part in the media mix. The name of the game is <em>adaptation</em>. Printers must evolve and embrace new technologies and these value-added services to overcome a changing environment.</p>
<p><em>Printing industries of America offers many publications to serve printers.&nbsp; For a comprehensive look into the future of print, check out our </em><a href="http://www.printing.org/node/10213">Forecast Part 1:Trends and Tactics</a><em> from </em>The Magazine<em>. It looks at many facets of the printing industry-- from politics to prepress and from economics to print markets-- and how they will be affected in the future.&nbsp; </em></p>
<p><span style="font-family: Arial;">Follow Printing Industries of America on </span><a href="http://www.facebook.com/printingindustries"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Facebook</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial;">, </span><a href="http://twitter.com/#!/printind"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Twitter</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial;">, </span><a href="http://www.linkedin.com/company/205780"><span style="font-family: Arial;">LinkedIn</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial;">, and, now, </span><a href="https://plus.google.com/101272226675911792924"><span style="font-family: Arial;">Google+</span></a><span style="font-family: Arial;">&nbsp;for updates.<br /></span></p><div class="field field-type-text field-field-blog-optin">
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http://blog.printing.org/blog/10410#commentsGeneralMember ResourcesTue, 27 Mar 2012 17:26:50 +0000kiorio@printing.org10410 at http://blog.printing.orgBenchmark Your Firm’s Performance vs. Our Fourth Quarter Survey Panelhttp://blog.printing.org/blog/10399
<p align="left"><em>This article was contributed by Ed Gleeson, Director of Economic &amp; Market Research, Printing Industries of America.</em></p>
<p align="left"><em>&nbsp;</em></p>
<p align="left">In 2011 we started off the year with fears of a double-dip recession, but much of those fears have subsided as the U.S. economy gained some momentum ending with fourth-quarter growth of 3.0%. Real GDP increased by 1.7% in 2011, and the printing industry--like the U.S. economy-- experienced growth, but at lower levels than 2010.</p>
<p align="left">According to our <strong><em>Fourth Quarter Print Market Survey</em></strong> of over 250 survey printers, sales increased by 3.9%. Taking into account the number of firms that went out of business during the year, we estimate that total industry sales increased by 0.35% in 2011 to $145.1 billion from $144.6 billion. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, 2011 print shipments declined 0.47%. Since the beginning of the year, both our survey panel and the U.S. Census Bureau reported print sales weakening. Most reported industry growth is from companies with more than 100 employees. On average their sales increased by 5.1%, while smaller firms reported sales declining.</p>
<p align="left">Digital toner-based and ancillary service sales were the main drivers of industry growth in 2011. Digital toner-based sales increased 8.5% and ancillary services increased 4.7%. Weighted average* conventional print sales increased by 1.4%, while non-weighted sales declined by 0.6%. Larger firms’ conventional print sales increased by 2.9% while smaller firms’ sales continued to decline. Since larger firms account for a larger percent of total industry sales, their answers receive a larger weight and pull up the industry average.</p>
<p align="left">In 2011 our panel reported prices declining slightly by 1.1%. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Producer Price Index for the printing industry, prices increase by 1.8% in 2011. Smaller firms with 1 to 19 employees were the only segment in our panel that reported increasing prices in 2011, an increase of 1.2%.</p>
<p align="left">How did your company perform compared to the industry average in terms of percent change in total firm sales, conventional print sales, digital print sales, and ancillary services sales? Were you able to pass along price increases to your customers or, like our panel, did average prices decline? In the <strong><em>Fourth Quarter Print Market Update</em></strong>, available soon at <a href="http://www.printing.org/store/38806">www.printing.org/store/38806</a>, you can compare your firm’s performance to the competition.</p>
<p align="left">The following are some of the main benchmarks available for comparison in the report: <br /><br /></p>
<ul>
<li><em>Percent change in year-end sales</em></li>
<li><em>Sales expectations for 2012</em></li>
<li><em>Printing prices, profitability</em></li>
<li><em>Material and labor costs</em></li>
<li><em>Employment and employment expectations</em></li>
<li><em>Capital spending </em>and<em> access to credit</em>.</li>
</ul>
<p align="left">We further segment the results so you can compare your company to companies of a similar size, in the same region, and using the same primary printing process. We recommend you compare your year-end results to our survey panel. You can also track how your firm is performing compared to the competition on a quarterly basis, which can help you determine where your strengths and weaknesses are compared to the competition.</p>
<p align="left">For a full analysis of the year-end results, visit <a href="http://www.printing.org/store/38806">www.printing.org/store/38806</a> to get your copy of the <strong><em>Fourth Quarter Print Market Update</em></strong>. <strong>This report will be available for purchase the week of March 26, 2012</strong>. All participants in the Quarterly Print Market Survey receive a free copy of the Print Market Update. If you are interested in participating in this survey and getting free access to these reports, please contact Ed Gleeson at <a href="mailto:egleeson@printing.org">egleeson@printing.org</a>.</p>
<p align="left"><em>*Weighted average—since larger firms, those with more than 100 employees, account for a larger portion of total industry sales we give more weight to their percent change in sales, prices, expectations, and profitability to more accurately portray what is happening to the overall industry. In the full report, <strong>The Fourth Quarter Print Market Update</strong>, we also include un-weighted statistics along with breakouts by size of firm, market segment, printing process, and region.</em></p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/10399#commentsGeneralEconomicsThu, 22 Mar 2012 17:28:05 +0000kiorio@printing.org10399 at http://blog.printing.orgVery Exciting Timeshttp://blog.printing.org/blog/10365
<p><em>This article is written by Mark Bohan, Vice President, Technology and Research at Printing Industries of America.</em></p>
<p>As has been true for some time, the printing industry is in the throes of changes. The business models are changing with transition of content between different media, while technology innovations are positively impacting the manner in which printed material is produced. It is critical to be aware of these technology changes and the ways in which they will impact your business. Here are my top picks on what technologies you need to be aware of: (watch for this year’s InterTech<sup>TM</sup> Technology Awards to highlight advances in these areas)</p>
<p><strong>Automated workflows </strong></p>
<p>Automated workflows are going through a new renaissance with the introduction of new specifications so files can handle complex variable data and then process them through the facility in the most efficient manner possible. This applies irrespective of the printing process. Increasingly, companies will try to “touch” a file as few times as possible.</p>
<p><strong>Production inkjet technology </strong></p>
<p>This technology is taking inkjet printing to a whole new marketplace, and we are seeing new capabilities monthly, if not weekly. Because this is so new, there will be many business and technical questions and challenges in its implementation.</p>
<p><strong>Wide format inkjet</strong></p>
<p>Wide format inkjet printing continues to expand in use, and is gradually eroding the use of screen printing for signage, point-of-purchase displays, and other uses. Single-pass ink jet is the most exciting development in this area, promising to revolutionize the speed and cost of producing wide-format graphics.</p>
<p><strong>Marketing metrics</strong></p>
<p>Marketing dollars are continually being challenged, and there is push to show value for the spend that occurs. To help with this there are many new technologies that can link print to other media, such as Web or mobile, including technologies such as&nbsp;QR codes&nbsp;and augmented reality. These can then be used to engage the consumer and provide hard analytics back about the effectiveness and touch points in campaigns.</p>
<p><strong>Paper and board packaging</strong></p>
<p>There will always be the need to have packaging material for the merchandise we buy! It continues to be a strong area in lithographic and flexo printing, both from the printer’s perspective, as well as those of the suppliers. There is also an increase in inkjet technologies for packaging.</p>
<p><strong>Color measurement and management </strong></p>
<p>Color science is continually developing to more accurately reflect what humans see. This is leading to the introduction of new color measurement instrumentation and management solutions to meet reproduction challenges. Solutions are continually made easier to use in order to broaden their application, and we are seeing the increased use of RGB workflows and Device Link Profiles to help with color management.</p>
<p><strong>Digital technologies </strong></p>
<p>The use of digital technologies is one of the growth areas of the printing industry, with higher margins available in these areas as it is not a commodity sale. These are producing more cost-effective solutions to the user with greater control and predictability of the print. The integration of different messaging and communication means is important, as is being able to provide metrics on the effectiveness of such campaigns.</p>
<p><strong>Non-print technologies </strong></p>
<p>There is an increase in the amount of information that is communicated in digital media, through tablets, computers, mobile devices, etc. New and innovative technologies are being developed to optimize the manner in which existing data can be utilized to this media, how it can be integrated into print media solutions, and how it can open up new business opportunities.</p>
<p><strong>Functional printing -- Inks that do things other than graphics!</strong></p>
<p>This is an emerging technology and one that a number of printers are becoming interested in. It encompasses items such as RFID, security, batteries, lighting, displays, and bio-sensors. This area is one which is highly specialized but can offer a very high value add to the printed material.</p>
<p><strong>Finishing automation </strong></p>
<p>The bindery is one of the most important operations in a facility, as we are handling some of the most valuable assets and with some of the least skilled staff. Printers should be evaluating the different solutions that are available for automating and increasing their effectiveness in this area.</p>
<p><strong>Integrated print solutions</strong></p>
<p>Many presses and providers are integrating a number of different processes into a single production run such as lithographic, inkjet, flexography, and foiling to name but a few. These solutions allow print to be differentiated and provide added value, utilizing the best features of the different processes.</p>
<p><strong>Flexible Packaging </strong></p>
<p>Packaging is never going to go away; there will always be the need to have packaging material and much of this is moving toward flexible packaging. This has traditionally been produced using flexo and gravure, although an increasing number of solutions are available using either digital or offset. Flexible packaging often has challenging requirements, such as complex inks and varnishes, material handling, image requirements, component compatibility, and finishing.<br /><br />Since 1978, the annual InterTech<sup>TM</sup> Technology Awards competition has highlighted many of the technology innovations that have propelled the industry to be more efficient, sustainable, and branch into new products and services. This is an invaluable source in identifying technologies and solutions that will change and positively impact the industry-- look for the announcement of the recipients in July this year. I strongly encourage manufacturers and suppliers to enter their new technologies in the 2012 competition. Visit <a href="http://www.printing.org/intertech">www.printing.org/intertech</a> for more information.</p>
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<div class="field-label">PIA Blog Opt-Out:&nbsp;</div>
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Yes </div>
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http://blog.printing.org/blog/10365#commentsGeneralResearch and TechnologyThu, 15 Mar 2012 17:18:50 +0000kiorio@printing.org10365 at http://blog.printing.orgCapitalize on your Premier Print Awards Winhttp://blog.printing.org/blog/10357
<p>Granted, it is an honor just to be nominated. But winning a coveted “Benny” Award at the <strong>Premier Print Awards</strong> is an undeniable accomplishment both professionally and personally. Not merely a statue to keep on your desk, the “Benny” can be a tool to propel your business, attract new clients, and motivate your employees.&nbsp; We have been bestowing this award for more than 60 years, and this year can be your year to take your place among the elite.</p>
<p>We have a sneak peek at winners’ success stories where they share their proven ways to capitalize on winning a Premier Print Award. In addition to receiving the “Benny” statuette at the Premier Print Awards and InterTech<sup>TM</sup> Technology Awards Gala in Chicago, Printing Industries of America will:</p>
<ul>
<li>Provide winners with a self-promotion kit that include a press release template, Premier Print Awards image, and complimentary ticket to the Gala.</li>
<li>Announce the winners to the trade press.</li>
<li>Publish the winners list in the <em>Premier Print Awards Annual </em>and on our website, <a href="http://www.printing.org/">www.printing.org</a></li>
</ul>
<p>You may think the party ends here, but the key to prolonging the afterglow of winning a “Benny” is to utilize <strong>promotion</strong> and <strong>benefits</strong>. 2011 Premier Print Award winner, Jim Mayes, owner of <a href="http://www.colorcraft-va.com/">ColorCraft of Virginia</a> in Sterling, VA says his customers “are pleased when their piece wins an award.” Additionally, his team is, “proud of their work, and an award on something that they produced gives them a sense of pride.”&nbsp;</p>
<p>Their win has enabled them to “promote ColorCraft as a high-end digital and ink jet printer.”</p>
<p>Ms. Tonya Spiers of <a href="http://www.knightabbey.com/">Knight Abby Printing and Direct Mail</a> in Biloxi, MS, earned a “Benny” in the 2011 Premier Print Awards and has seen her sales grow as a direct result. She told us how she profited from her accomplishment:</p>
<p><strong>What has winning a “Benny” meant to you and your business?</strong></p>
<p><em>We are so proud and honored to be recognized as part of such an elite group. Our sales professionals have a photo of the “Benny” in with their brochures. It really opens up a dialog with customers.&nbsp; </em></p>
<p><strong>Has the way customers and your competitors view your business changed since your win?</strong></p>
<p><em>We have never been recognized like that before, and we are now able to have that level of conversation with our customers. We stand out among some of the best people in the U.S. and the world. In the suffering economy, we can still create great digital work and great pieces.</em></p>
<p><strong>How did you utilize the press kit from Printing Industries of America?</strong></p>
<p><em>The press kit was very helpful. We published the press release in articles we send out to companies and to customers. It was also seen by our local competitors.</em></p>
<p><strong>What is the most rewarding result of winning this award?</strong></p>
<p><em>Our company used this award to boost internal morale and for employee recognition more than anything.&nbsp; To be able to take this award back home and say to them, “You did this,” has been the greatest benefit. We have a great team and great customer service. It can be difficult, sometimes, in our industry, and they are proud to have earned this.</em></p>
<p>Printing Industries of America hosts the Premier Print Awards to recognize the highest quality in printing. Companies of any size are encouraged to enter, as some categories are segmented to ensure like-size companies compete with each other. A win of any award will promote exposure and long-lasting success for your business. The first step in achieving this level of success is to enter the <a href="http://www.printing.org/premierprint.">Premier Print Awards</a> by visiting <a href="http://www.printing.org/ppaentries">www.printing.org/ppaentries</a>. Enter by April 20, 2012, to receive the Early Bird discount. All entries must be received by May 18, 2012.</p>
<p>Do you have a success story to share? We want to hear your story! Please leave a comment below or visit us at <a href="http://www.linkedin.com/company/205780">Printing Industries of America Networking Group on LinkedIn</a> where you can discuss opportunities with your peers.</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/10357#commentsGeneralMember ResourcesFri, 09 Mar 2012 19:54:15 +0000kiorio@printing.org10357 at http://blog.printing.orgPrint Goes Viralhttp://blog.printing.org/blog/10354
<p>You may have heard that QR Codes are dead. But, like print, QR codes must evolve to meet demands. Many companies are incorporating QR codes in their marketing mix (along with similar tools like <a href="http://www.google.com/mobile/goggles/#text">Google Goggles</a>, a “visual search application for Android phones”). They are a valuable use for direct mail because they integrate print with the Internet.&nbsp; Used effectively, they can be powerful tools that yield successful results in your marketing campaign and link your customers from printed material to the Web.</p>
<p><strong>What Is a QR Code?</strong></p>
<p>If you have not used QR codes, this <em>Quick Response code</em> is a URL that is converted into a specific matrix (or two-dimensional) barcode using QR code generators like <a href="http://qrcode.kaywa.com/">Kawa</a> or <a href="http://www.qrstuff.com/">QR Stuff</a>. Using a smart phone, customers download a barcode scanner application for <a href="https://market.android.com/details?id=la.droid.qr&amp;hl=en">Android</a>, <a href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/scan/id411206394?mt=8">iPhone</a>, or other smart phones, scan this barcode, and reach a website, a YouTube video, company home page, or a discount offer like USPS recently promoted.</p>
<p><strong>Are They Successful?</strong></p>
<p>QR codes can work in favor of the printing industry <em>if </em>they are used effectively.&nbsp; A recent promotion from USPS is a great example. To help boost direct mail marketing, they offered a 3% discount off bulk mail shipping in July and August of 2011 to companies that incorporated QR codes into their direct mail. This smart move was not only a momentous push for mainstream QR code use, but also an encouragement for businesses to send printed mail. The USPS plans on offering a similar discount program in the summer of 2012.</p>
<p>In a recent study from <a href="http://www.comscore.com/Press_Events/Press_Releases/2011/8/14_Million_Americans_Scanned_QR_or_Bar_Codes_on_their_Mobile_Phones_in_June_2011">comScore</a>, <strong><em>6.2% </em></strong>of all mobile phone users, or over<strong><em> 14,000 </em></strong>people, used QR code scanners. The <strong><em>highest users were males between the ages of 18--34 with an annual income over $100,000</em></strong>. <strong><em>Printed magazines and newspapers and product packages</em></strong> were the items most frequently scanned by these users.&nbsp;</p>
<p>There are still some drawbacks, however, as many consumers are still not using QR codes because they are 1) unaware of how to use them or 2) do not have a smart phone or the application required to read them.&nbsp; Further issues with QR code usage include location of the code and the destination site. If a customer cannot access a code either because it is on the side of a moving bus or another inconvenient location, he or she is not very likely to scan it. Seventy-two percent of consumers say they have seen a QR code, but nearly 30% do not know what it is according to an October 2011 survey from strategic marketing firm Russell Herder (from <a href="http://www.marketingcharts.com/direct/qr-code-scanners-likely-male-young-21019/">Marketing Charts.com</a>). Also, if a customer does scan the code but does not find the desired or useful information, the use is considered unsuccessful.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Successful Uses</strong></p>
<p>QR codes can be great marketing tools, and they are also being used by printers in creative ways:</p>
<ul>
<li>In a <a href="http://postandparcel.info/45686/news/companies/usps-reveals-details-of-summers-mobile-barcode-promotion/">discount offer like USPS</a></li>
<li>As <a href="http://blog.seattlepi.com/videoblogging/2011/03/02/port-townsend-first-us-map-to-showcase-changeable-2d-codes-qr-codes-microsoft-tag/">part of an interactive map like Town Graphics</a>&nbsp;</li>
<li>As <a href="http://blog.barcoding.com/2010/12/wrap-your-holiday-presents-with-qr-codes/">interactive wrapping paper like QRAPPING PAPER™</a></li>
<li>On <a href="http://mashable.com/2010/07/28/qr-code-gulf-campaign/">billboards and T-shirts to help clean up the Gulf of Mexico</a></li>
<li>On <a href="http://www.708media.com/qrcode/21-great-examples-of-qr-code-business-cards/">business cards</a></li>
<li>To <a href="http://qrcodegenius.com/2011/04/a-large-mountain-dew-has-never-sounded-so-good/">offer free music downloads from Taco Bell and Mountain Dew</a></li>
</ul>
<p>Printing Industries of America uses QR codes throughout our campaigns to ensure messages stand out in an area where space is limited. Lisa Rawa, Vice President, Marketing, shares some important QR code keys to successful implementation for your print campaigns:</p>
<ul>
<li>Consider providing short instructions near the code for customers not yet familiar with the process.</li>
<li>Remember: People will be using their phones to scan QR codes, so check that the QR code leads to a website that is “mobile-enabled” and easily navigated.</li>
<li>Link the customer to engaging content like a product video, calendar event, contact information, an email address, an SMS text message, mapping information, or personalized mobile micro site instead of just a company website.</li>
<li>Use the QR tracking code to gain insight into the effectiveness of your campaign.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>We Want to Know-</strong></p>
<p><strong><em>Are you using QR codes, and, if so, what kind of response have you experienced?</em></strong></p>
<p><strong><em>Do you have any creative uses for QR codes to share, like different colors, shapes, or applications?</em></strong></p>
<p><em>Please feel free to share your comments below of on on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/printingindustries">Facebook</a>, </em><a href="https://twitter.com/#!/printind">Twitter</a><em>, or </em><a href="http://www.linkedin.com/company/205780">LinkedIn</a>.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/10354#commentsGeneralMember ResourcesThu, 08 Mar 2012 21:23:01 +0000kiorio@printing.org10354 at http://blog.printing.orgTop Technical Leaders to Speak at TAGA http://blog.printing.org/blog/10346
<p style="text-align: center;"><object width="320" height="240" data="http://64.211.221.146/images/taga-logo-2009.png" type="application/x-shockwave-flash"><param name="src" value="http://64.211.221.146/images/taga-logo-2009.png" /></object></p>
<p><em>The following post was written by Chuck Gehman of Mimeo.com.</em></p>
<p>It’s hard to say “there’s something for everything” about the TAGA Annual Technical Conference, the global graphics arts industries’ most elite technical conference. It’s specifically NOT for everyone—unless you are an academic, engineer, scientist, or technical practitioner of printing. But if that happens to be the case, you will certainly find things that you need to know being discussed at this year’s 64<sup>th</sup> annual event, to be held in <strong>Jacksonville, Florida, on March 18–21</strong>. If you are a CEO, COO, or owner of a printing company or industry equipment or software manufacturer, I would strongly advise that you send a couple of your key technical people. I’ll explain why.</p>
<p>My personal involvement in the industry is in the creation of software for printing applications, and there are always a few great talks on this topic. But for me, what I find incredibly invigorating about TAGA is the fact that there are so many topics discussed that I am not directly engaged in as a professional. These topics are as far ranging as ink, paper, mechanical engineering, chemistry, physics, photography, light—but not limited to these. In fact, there are almost no limits. The result for me has been broadened horizons—I learn what I don’t know, and approach problems I face in my work with a new perspective.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The keynotes this year include some of the most interesting leaders from some of the most exciting companies in the graphic communications business today. They start with Marc Olin of EFI, who has been travelling the world buying up printing-related software companies while other former industry leaders are suffering, and move on to Mike Puyot from Memjet, a company which is finally shipping product via OEMs and is poised to dramatically change everyone’s business, after existing as a virtual “urban legend” for almost 10 years! These are followed by the most complete, robust technical program available this year at any conference in the industry.</p>
<p>One of the coolest things about TAGA is the questions from the audience after the presentations. As you can imagine with a group of this makeup, there are many opinions, and TAGA encourages an intellectually charged environment. There are no assumptions, and this is not a love-in where PR rules—people are often challenged on the statements they make from the dais. It’s exciting!</p>
<p>Another really important aspect of the event is the student chapter participation, and the annual student competitions. To the printing company owner: here is the most important reason for you to send your top technical stakeholder or two to TAGA: recruiting. Plug your company into the top printing schools in the WORLD—Cal Poly SLO, Clemson, RIT, Western Michigan, as well as Ryerson in Canada, and leading global schools Grenoble Institute of Technology in France, and Linköping University in Sweden, to name just a few. They will be sending teams of their best students (usually Juniors and Seniors, who will soon be looking for a career position) to compete for awards in our annual technical competitions.</p>
<p>The program includes talks from some of the recipients of the Printing Industries of America’s prestigious InterTech Awards, an opportunity to learn about some of the industry’s latest and most advanced, game-changing commercial product developments.</p>
<p>Beyond all the important content, there is the “real world” social platform as well—the three-day conference is loaded with great networking opportunities, including luncheons, the association’s annual business meeting, and a gala awards banquet. TAGA’s annual event has been a “can’t miss” for the industry’s tech community for a long time, and I’d encourage anyone who hasn’t attended in the past to make it a new annual tradition. There is still time to register and attend. Visit <a href="http://tagaatc.printing.org">http://tagaatc.printing.org</a>.</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/10346#commentsGeneralConferencesThu, 08 Mar 2012 14:02:59 +0000kiorio@printing.org10346 at http://blog.printing.org6 Managerial Keys to Improvement Successhttp://blog.printing.org/blog/10329
<p><em>Register for the <a class="active" title="Continuous Improvement Conference" href="http://prnt.in/ZMX" target="_blank">Continuous Improvement Conference</a> April 1- April 4, 2012.</em></p>
<p>The success that printing companies have in using Lean manufacturing concepts depends, largely, on the effectiveness of their managers.&nbsp; Here are six steps your managers can take to speed the pace of your company’s improvement:&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Key 1. &nbsp;Understand what is meant by <em>improvement.</em></strong>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Most managers seek competitive advantage through operational improvement when the better approach is to seek <em>Lean</em> improvement. Lean improvement is not about the work, but, rather, about eliminating wastes—things that get in the way of efficient work. These wastes—such as waiting—add time and cost and no customer value. You should become familiar with the eight common wastes. <br /><br /></p>
<p>Over 95% of the elapsed time between paying and getting paid is attributable to these wastes. Unless managers are trained in what to look for, these wastes may be invisible.&nbsp; Managers should first &nbsp;visit the work area with an open mind to identify improvement opportunities. &nbsp;It is also a good idea to visit a few organizations that have well-developed improvement systems, speak to your peers,&nbsp; and &nbsp;learn from their experiences.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Key 2.&nbsp; Demonstrate Passionate Commitment.</strong></p>
<p>Passion for your work will not only drive you forward, but it is also conveyed to your employees.&nbsp; For managers who see and understand the opportunity for improvement, it’s easy to be passionate. Employees respond to your example of passionate commitment. &nbsp;Remember—your passion can’t be delegated. If you are a no-show on the floor, don’t expect a commitment from employees.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Key 3.&nbsp; Learn the Tools.</strong></p>
<p>When both managers and employees understand the meaning of &nbsp;i<em>mproveme</em>nt, it creates an opportunity to apply the “how-to” or the tools of Lean Manufacturing.&nbsp; These are the <em>means</em> to improvement that will work in any organization. Before attempting the know-how, be sure you know and can articulate <em>why</em> these tools are needed.&nbsp; An employee may initially respond to a tool like 5S with objections. Most objections are just cautionary—that is, employees need to know more before accepting a new idea.&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>As management is learning the tools, they &nbsp;are creating a favorable environment for learning and practice and keeping everyone practiced. Provide training at the point of need and allocate time as part of the training for practice with a real, if small, project. Don’t penalize for mistakes but do praise small victories. Lean is learned by doing—and, the best learning occurs in small increments; twenty minutes per day is better than a day once per month.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Key 4.&nbsp; Make the job easier, better, faster and <em>then</em> cheaper.</strong></p>
<p>Use the above <em>order</em> for successful improvement. Open the issue by addressing job strain as the main reason for change, which shows respect for employees while generating initial buy-in. The most important tacit learning for employees in the early stages of an improvement program should be, “This is a good thing.&nbsp; It made my job easier. I’ll keep an open mind.” Unfortunately most organizations implement in reverse order, aiming first for cost reduction. Cost reduction is an important objective in a price competitive industry like printing, but creating employee engagement will lead to cost savings.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Key 5.&nbsp; Start small and expand from a solid core.</strong></p>
<p>The technical part of Lean—the tools—are difficult to implement without careful nurturing.&nbsp; This is because everyone needs to <em>un</em>-learn old habits and thinking. Be careful to address only the changes your company can support at one time. It is better to focus each improvement in a small, manageable area. Remember to celebrate successes, reflect on problems, and then expand the breadth of participation.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Key 6.&nbsp; Banish the 8<sup>th</sup> waste. </strong></p>
<p>The 8<sup>th</sup> waste, the worst waste of all, is <em>Loss of Human Creativity</em>. Conventional managers treat most employees as ‘eyes and hands’, squandering their potential contributions. Lean managers unlock employee creativity by developing a corps of lean learners, experimenters, and problem-solvers. For Lean managers, learning and practicing the tools, the <em>know-how</em>, is the means not only to higher productivity but also the means to developing the <em>know-w</em>hy:&nbsp; an enduring culture of continuous improvement.&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><em>This post comes from Bruce Hamilton, president of GBMP and a speaker at our upcoming </em><a href="http://ci.printing.org/page/6622"><em>Continuous Improvement Conference</em></a><em>, April 1–4 in St. Louis. Before joining GBMP, Bruce’s company received the Shingo Prize for Operation Excellence, an internationally recognized standard for lean manufacturing. He has helped some of America’s largest and smallest organizations realize the benefits of Lean philosophy and practice. You can read more of his improvement thoughts at </em><a href="http://www.oldleandude.com/"><em>www.oldleandude.com</em></a><em>.</em></p>
<p><strong><em>Comment and let us know what you think.</em></strong></p>
<p><strong><em>Join our professional networking group on <a class="active" title="LinkedIn" href="http://prnt.in/ZMB" target="_blank">LinkedIn.</a></em></strong></p>
<div>&nbsp;</div>http://blog.printing.org/blog/10329#commentsGeneralConferencesWed, 29 Feb 2012 20:36:30 +0000kiorio@printing.org10329 at http://blog.printing.orgMy Interest in Pinterest Started Decades Ago with a Band Aid Box! http://blog.printing.org/blog/10247
<p>&nbsp;&nbsp;A childhood friend, Janie, and I exchanged metal bandage boxes when we were six years old.&nbsp; What does that have to do with Pinterest?&nbsp; Stay with me, please.&nbsp; We exchanged the metal &nbsp;&nbsp;boxes filled with “goodies” that we liked to share. My box might contain glittered fabric, a Cracker Jack toy, a picture of a pretty doll from the Sears Toy Catalog etc. (Yes, I am dating myself.)&nbsp; Janie’s &nbsp;box might contain a plastic purse for Barbie, a picture of a Lego set etc.&nbsp; The boxes evolved into scrapbooks, then charm bracelets and as adults—magazine clippings, photo albums, and scrapbooks. &nbsp;Get it?&nbsp;</p>
<p>Kids, aging kids and I like to show “mine” if you show “yours.” So now we have a very sophisticated “show me” tool called Pinterest.&nbsp; When 11 million unique visitors visit a site, you know that it is meeting some basic need…the “show me” need.&nbsp; People have a lot of time on their hands since <em>Business Insider</em> reported that nearly 100 minutes is the average on the site versus just 19 minutes on LinkedIn.&nbsp; The numbers are staggering.&nbsp; On the <em>Business Insider</em> comment section, people questioned the number of recent articles about Pinterest.&nbsp; The comments suggested that Pinterest and the magazine have a mutual financial investment. BI stated emphatically “no.”&nbsp; The Pinterest articles are everywhere so, this social media dabbler, checked it out.</p>
<p>Through Tweetdeck I mentioned that I was interested and received several invites (needed to use Pinterest). When questioned about its value, the comments were mixed.&nbsp; &nbsp;I jumped into Pinterest enthusiastically.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Conclusion:</strong>&nbsp; It was fun!&nbsp; Really fun….my childhood memories and “show me” need resurfaced immediately.&nbsp; I spent time….not 100 minutes….but more time than normal, checking it out.&nbsp; OK, so I&nbsp;slipped &nbsp;into the bath pics since that is one of my top-of-mind home projects.&nbsp; Wait, wait! What about work and business and my role to find profitable revenue activities and streams for our members?&nbsp; OK, from a work- related point of view, I say “monitor” this site.&nbsp; I have seen and heard of clever ideas for Pinterest’s use such as:&nbsp; designers’ projects and special printing campaigns uploaded for browsing; job seekers portfolios; photographers’ pictures.&nbsp; Other issues related to copyright and use are also cropping up such as from for-sale stock photo companies&nbsp;claiming “foul.” &nbsp;&nbsp;There are no businesses that are immune to the impact of new upstarts on the Internet!&nbsp; Are they making money?&nbsp;&nbsp; The Wall Street Journal article says it all, “The Rite of Web Passage—Huge Traffic, No Revenue.”&nbsp;&nbsp; Wait and see on revenue—the referrals to products from the Pins have increased tremendously. Advertisers are claiming more from Pinterest than other social media sites. &nbsp;Outsiders value the upstart at $200 million now.&nbsp; Targeted advertising is all the rage.&nbsp; So, if I start getting bathtub ads as a result of viewing Pinterest “pins,” we will have further evidence of how the revenue stream to advertisers will emerge.&nbsp; Don’t check out my pins, though--just don’t have the 100 minutes time to develop boards for review--yet. My “show me” need is not as strong as “get it done” need for work, family, and life.&nbsp; &nbsp;</p>
<p>Check out the Wall Street Journal article: <a href="http://prnt.in/ZgH">http://prnt.in/ZgH</a> Or the over 70 million entries about Pinterest. &nbsp;<a href="http://pinterest.com/">http://pinterest.com/</a> Here is one of the <em>Business Insider</em> articles:&nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="http://prnt.in/ZgV">http://prnt.in/ZgV</a> &nbsp;about the growth of Pinterest.</p>
<p>Let me know what you think!&nbsp; Mary Garnett</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>http://blog.printing.org/blog/10247#commentsSocial Media Field GuideFri, 17 Feb 2012 22:20:35 +0000mgarnett@printing.org10247 at http://blog.printing.orgPrinting Consistent Colorhttp://blog.printing.org/blog/10242
<p><strong>Printing Consistent Color</strong></p>
<p>More and more printers are implementing the G7® specification and color management while profiling their monitors, proofing devices, and printing presses. There is no doubt that this process works, providing accurate, predictable color from proof to press. What should not be overlooked, however, is the notion of maintaining consistent color balance throughout the pressrun. Have you ever had a customer fan out a job, revealing that the colors don’t match from sheet to sheet (as close as possible) to the last sheet of a pressrun?</p>
<p>Maintaining consistent color throughout a pressrun is a difficult task. The press operator must maintain a multitude of print variables at any given time; things like ink density, dot gain, gray balance, and print contrast, to name just a few. More often than not, these jobs are being printed on less-than-desirable paper stock, further complicating the process.</p>
<p>The ability to maintain consistent color of images during the pressrun begins with the color separation process. Image conversion, that is, changing images from an RGB of LAB to a CMYK color space, is not as simple as a mode change in Photoshop. Considerations must be made for ink, paper, and the condition of the press, to name just a few.</p>
<p><iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/13dTBHZINdo" frameborder="0" width="425" height="350"></iframe></p>
<p>To read the complete Tech Talk Paper, download the PDF by clicking on the following link: <a href="http://efiles.printing.org/eweb/docs/DPC/PrintingConsistentColor.pdf">DPC Tech Talk/February 2012</a>.</p>
<p>You can also learn more about achieving consistent color through Printing Industries of America’s Training Programs. Click on the links below to learn more.</p>
<p><a href="http://training.printing.org/page/10049"><strong>G7 Digital Operator Training Program</strong></a><em><br />April 17–18, 2012 in Pittsburgh, PA</em><br />Presented by Printing Industries of America, a training program endorsed by IDEAlliance</p>
<p><a href="http://training.printing.org/page/10053"><strong>Optimizing Color from Your Digital Press</strong><br /></a><em>April 24–25, 2012 in Pittsburgh, PA<br /></em>Presented by Printing Industries of America<br /><br /><a href="http://training.printing.org/page/10050"><strong>G7 Offset Operator Training Program</strong></a><em><br />June 14–15, 2012 in Pittsburgh, PA<br /></em>Presented by Printing Industries of America, a training program endorsed by IDEAlliance<br /><br /><strong>G7 Expert/Professional Training<br /></strong><em>June 11–13 in Pittsburgh, PA<br /></em>Hosted by Printing Industries of America and Presented by IDEAlliance<br />Please call 800-910-4283, ext. 731 for more information and to register for this program.</p><div class="field field-type-text field-field-blog-optin">
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http://blog.printing.org/blog/10242#commentsGeneralResearch and TechnologyTue, 14 Feb 2012 15:55:30 +0000lisa.erdner@efi.com10242 at http://blog.printing.orgIt’s All About the Experiencehttp://blog.printing.org/blog/10240
<p>The LPIA Technical Institute has one mission—to provide a world-class experience that surpasses any other like it in the label converting, packaging, top-sheet, and product decoration industry. This year, we will feature two state-of-the art venues that will expertly cover the latest technological advances and end-to-end production and workflow solutions. This is not your typical “stand and deliver” program, but a mixture of industry-related experts who will deliver content that is then supported by application showcases and innovative technology demonstrations firsthand.</p>
<p>&nbsp;The <a href="http://h10124.www1.hp.com/campaigns/ga/2011/GAExpCrt/us-en/index.html">HP Experience Center</a> is “your center,